Capitalism in Contemporary Islamic Society: Herbert Marcuse's Perspective on Consumerism and the Decadence of Islamic Values

Abstract

This study investigates the condition of contemporary Muslim society in the context of the rising dominance of capitalism, which has been significantly accelerated by advancements in technology. The increasing sophistication of technology has empowered capitalist interests, particularly through the propagation of consumerist ideologies. This research employs a qualitative methodology using a library research approach. Data were collected from scholarly books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and academic theses relevant to the research topic. The analytical process consisted of selecting appropriate literature, identifying relevant data, organizing the information systematically, and drawing conclusions based on the synthesized findings. The study reveals that technological progress has become an instrument through which capitalist forces extend their control exploiting society by commodifying labor and replacing it with wage-based systems. According to Herbert Marcuse, consumerism functions as an ideological tool that perpetuates capitalist hegemony by conditioning individuals to prioritize consumption over critical consciousness. Such consumerist behavior has contributed to the gradual erosion of Islamic ethical values. In reality, a large segment of contemporary Muslim communities experiences subtle forms of ideological subjugation, often without recognizing it. The sophisticated and covert strategies of capitalist systems render their manipulation difficult to detect, thereby reinforcing the illusion of autonomy among the masses. Moreover, the overwhelming influence of technological advancement is steering society toward irrational and hedonistic lifestyles. While Islam permits the fulfillment of human needs, it also emphasizes moderation and ethical boundaries. However, present-day societal behavior tends to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term needs and spiritual values.