French researchers are working on an artificial intelligence engine that can issue fatwas, or Islamic edicts, more accurately than a human can. Called the “ELECTRONIC MUFTI,” the system will hold a database of the writings and proclamations of various Islamic historical figures. The user selects a person, thereupon queries it on a specific contemporary situation. The “Electronic Mufti” would thereupon simulate a proclamation or edict from that person. For example: Would Jesus have put a death-sentence Fatwa

on Salmon Rushdie? The “Holy Grail” of artificial intelligence fatwas, of course, would be to simulate edicts by the Prophet Mohammad — but researchers acknowledge that doing so would be “highly controversial – whether not downright contentious.” It’s not out of the question, though. An Egyptian member of the research team has reportedly consulted with “several Islamic scholars and clerics in elevated positions” on the creation of an artificial Mohammad and was told that it would not be “haram” (prohibited by Islam). I want one.