BY AMAL ELGHARBAWY

AND ANIS NAJIHA AHMAD

International Institute for Halal Research and Training( INHART), International Islamic University Malaysia

Just like metal rusts when exposed to water and air for too long, our brains also degrade when exposed to meaningless content, digital overstimulation, and a lack of purposeful engagement.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE BRAIN

We live in a digital age where information is abundant, but wisdom feels increasingly scarce. It is hard to ignore how social media has become a central part of our lives- how we instinctively reach for our phones during moments of boredom or downtime.

Studies show that excessive social media use is rewiring our brains, shrinking our attention spans, and fuelling a culture of dopamine addiction. But what does this mean for our cognitive functions, emotional wellbeing, and daily habits? 1. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Twitter train our brains to consume information in bite-sized pieces. Over time, this weakens our ability to focus on more profound, more meaningful content such as books, study, or introspection.

2. Our brain releases dopamine whenever we get a like, comment, or notification. This creates a cycle where we constantly seek instant gratification, making us impatient and restless.

3. Social media feeds are filled with unrealistic portrayals of life, success, and beauty. Constant exposure to these images leads to low selfesteem, anxiety, and dissatisfaction.

4. Instead of experiencing real-life joys, conversations, and relationships, people spend hours in a digital bubble, disconnecting from the world around them. This results in a weakened mind, reduced cognitive function, and a feeling of emptiness despite being“ connected” all the time.

“ Studies show that excessive social media use is rewiring our brains, shrinking our attention spans, and fuelling a culture of dopamine addiction. But what does this mean for our cognitive functions, emotional wellbeing, and daily habits?

DEATH OF DEEP THINKING

Beyond social media, other forms of digital entertainment, such as bingewatching shows, gaming for long hours, and excessive consumption of useless gossip, also contribute to brain corrosion.

The less we think deeply, the weaker our ability to solve problems, innovate, and reflect on life.

Moreover, excessive exposure to meaningless entertainment leads to intellectual laziness and reduces our capacity to engage in meaningful conversations.

We are losing the ability to sit in silence, reflect, and seek knowledge- all of which are essential for spiritual and personal growth( Shanmugasundaram and Tamilarasu, 2023).

In a world that’ s constantly vying for our attention, it’ s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The question we must ask ourselves is this: are we trading our capacity for deep thinking and meaningful connection for the fleeting pleasures of digital distraction? And if so, how do we reclaim what we’ ve lost?

LIFESTYLE OF PURPOSE

Islam provides a structured, disciplined way of life that naturally combats

brain corrosion. The halal and toyyib way of living is not just about food- it extends to what we consume mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Islam encourages productivity, reflection, and balance, ensuring our minds remain strong and engaged in meaningful pursuits.

1. Protecting the mind with purposeful engagement Ibn Abbas reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:“ Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your illness, your riches before your poverty, your free time before your work, and your life before your death”- [ Shu’ ab al-Imān lil-Bayhaqī 10250 ]

Islam teaches us to use our time wisely. Engaging in activities that bring knowledge, personal growth, and spiritual fulfilment prevents mental decay. Instead of mindless scrolling, we are encouraged to read and seek beneficial knowledge, engage in productive work and hobbies, spend time remembering Allah SWT( dhikr), and reflect on our purpose and goals.

2. Social media in moderation: The concept of balance Islam does not prohibit enjoyment but promotes moderation. The Quran states:“ Do not follow what you have no‘ sure’ knowledge of. Indeed, all will be called to account for‘ their’ hearing, sight, and intellect”- [ Quran, Al-Isra, 17:36 ].

This verse emphasises the importance of mindful consumption of information, reminding us that we will be held accountable for spending our time- whether we invested it wisely or wasted it on trivial pursuits. Islam teaches that enjoyment and relaxation are permissible, but they must be balanced with meaningful pursuits and spiritual growth.

3. Seeking mental clarity through prayer and reflection One of the most powerful tools to prevent brain corrosion is prayer. Regular prayer drives us to disconnect from the world’ s noise and reconnect with Allah SWT.