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What is Islamic Philosophy? offers a broad introduction to Islamic thought, from its origins to the many challenging issues facing Muslims in the contemporary world. The chapters explore early Islamic philosophy and trace its development through key themes and figures up to the twenty-first century.
Topics covered include:
ethical issues such as just war, abortion, women's rights, homosexuality and cloning
questions in political philosophy regarding what kind of Islamic state could exist and how democratic can (or should) Islam really be
the contribution of Islam to 'big questions' such as the existence of God, the concept of the soul, and what constitutes truth.
This fresh and original book includes a helpful glossary and suggestions for further reading. It is ideal for students coming to the subject for the first time as well as anyone wanting to learn about the philosophical tradition and dilemmas that are part of the Islamic worldview.
List of contents
Preface 1. What is Islamic Philosophy? 2. The Greek and Persian Legacy 3. The First Muslim Philosophers 4. God, the Soul, and the After-life 5. Faith versus Reason 6. Islam and the State 7. Ethical Dilemmas 8. Jihad and Just War Theory 9. Islam and Shared Moral Values. Appendix I: List of Names. Appendix II: Glossary of Terms. Bibliography.
About the author
Roy Jackson is Reader in Philosophy of Religion at the University of Gloucestershire, UK. He has many years' experience of lecturing in Philosophy and Religion at a number of universities. His books include
Fifty Key Figures in Islam (2006),
Nietzsche and Islam (2007),
Mawlana Mawdudi and Political Islam (2010), and
The God of Philosophy (2011).
Summary
This fresh and original book offers a broad introduction to Islamic thought, from its origins to the many challenging issues facing Muslims in the contemporary world. The chapters explore early Islamic philosophy and trace its development through key themes and figures up to the twenty-first century.