[Extract from Preface of Islam and Business Ethics by Dr S M Hasanuzzaman,
published by the Institute of Islamic Banking and Insurance, London, UK 2003]

In Islam, the Creator is the real Owner of the universe and everything therein and of mankind, too. This fact belies the pretension of man's unbridled freedom in any sphere of his activity. It also implies that human life as a whole should be subjected to the values that God and His Messenger have prescribed. The Qur'an makes a mention of a number of economic pursuits in a tone of approval, except for a few that it condemns. The approval and condemnation are put in literal terms, not in figurative or metaphorical terms, which would allow their interpretation according to human whims or wishes. The Prophet further plugged the interpretative loopholes by defining the procedural details of lawful pursuits in such a way as to protect the larger interest of the society. In addition, he also emphasised moral discipline, honesty and trust and mutual consideration.


Source : islamic-banking.com