Date : 20-07-2023

Question :

What is the ruling on students using the technology of (chatgpt)  to prepare scientific research papers? It is worth noting that this technology allows students to write the question, and it then generates a complete research paper on the topic. In this technology, it is not possible to know whether the research has been plagiarized or not, as it generates the content without using Google platform. It is worth noting that some students put effort into thinking and analyzing to write their research, while others use the (chatgpt) technology to create their papers. Does this make the diligent student equal to others?

The Answer :


All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.


 


The (Chatgpt) technology is considered an interactive model based on artificial intelligence and is one of the modern innovations in this field. It can be used to generate content, such as writing articles, creative texts, and assisting in research writing, among other applications. This program is developed by the American company OpenAI and was launched in November 2022.


As for the ruling on using this technology and employing it in scientific research writing or solving assigned tasks, it depends on the nature of the intended effort in this case and can be divided into two categories:


Firstly, if it involves original effort intended for the actual research, which includes formulating information, drawing conclusions, organizing ideas, and discussing related issues, then it is not permissible for the student to use the (chatgpt) technology to produce it and present it as their own mental effort. Research is one of the evaluation methods, and its purpose is for students to search for information from reliable sources, learn to formulate and organize this information in the research to draw conclusions. Writing the research in this way would be unjust, as it equates the student with others who genuinely put effort, thought, and creativity into their research. The Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) said: “The one who boasts of receiving what he has not been given is like him who has put on the two garments of falsehood." [Agreed upon] Presenting the research as one's personal effort in this manner is lying, cheating, and forgery and lying is one of the major sins. Allah Says (What means): "O ye who believe! Fear God and be with those who are true (in word and deed)." [At-Tawbah/119]. In addition, the Prophet (PBUH) said: "He who took up arms against us is not of us and he who acted dishonestly towards us is not of us."  [Moslim].


Secondly, if it involves a formal effort, such as using search engines to gather information, statistics, collecting sources, linguistic verification, etc., then there is no harm in utilizing any artificial intelligence tools that enhance the research's strength and scientific authenticity.


In conclusion, as far as their academic work is concerned, we advise researchers and students to fear Allah and to refrain from anything involving lying, cheating, or forgery. Rather, they should maintain personal diligence in writing their scientific and research studies and use these technologies in a way that pleases Allah. And Allah The Almighty Knows Best.