(Part 36)
The Eighth Topic: The Importance of Imitation
Today, innovation in various fields strongly depends on highly advanced facilities and substantial governmental financial support. Innovation in scientific, political, social, and other arenas is mainly carried out by prestigious governmental and non-governmental universities and institutions in developed countries. These studies, though beneficial, also carry potential drawbacks. To catch up with the global caravan of science and technology, the very first step is reasonable imitation and adherence to their positive achievements. Islamic countries, after losing their prominent position in the world, have not only fallen behind scientifically but also face a cultural invasion from the West. To counter this cultural assault and preserve the valuable Islamic heritage, the Muslim Ummah needs growth and unity in order to be fully prepared for both defensive and offensive measures against their enemies.
The First Speech: Imitation in Science and Culture
In today’s world, the diversity of scientific disciplines is so vast that mastering even two fields fully would take more than a lifetime. This scientific growth continues with the help of technology. All societies are striving hard not to fall behind in this race for progress, constantly updating their knowledge. Most of the world’s countries are involved in this intense competition, and their contribution depends on how much they develop their knowledge, modernize their systems, support their scholars, retain national experts, and improve their economies, politics, and personal and societal freedoms. Many technologically backward countries are not only poor consumers of this knowledge but also incapable of understanding it.
Compensating for this backwardness in various fields—scientific, educational, industrial, etc.—requires proper imitation or copying from others. Achieving relative growth in these areas demands years of consistent and accurate government action, absence of destructive foreign intervention, national support, comprehensive planning, economic backing, and more. Proper imitation can make this somewhat attainable. In today’s world, aside from a few countries known for innovation, most others establish their position by following those who have created knowledge.