IJC 303 Islamic Philosophy
This comprehensive course provides students with a systematic introduction to the rich history, major schools, and fundamental concepts of Islamic philosophy. Students explore key issues and debates within the field, focusing on the influential works of representative Muslim philosophers throughout different historical periods, including the classical, medieval, pre-modern, and modern eras. Moreover, the course highlights the contemporary relevance of these philosophical discussions in relation to present-day philosophical discourse. A significant emphasis is placed on essential topics that have captivated Muslim philosophers throughout history, such as the nature of God, the structure of the cosmos, the acquisition of knowledge, the pursuit of human goodness, the interplay between faith and reason, and the complexities of free will and determinism. Additionally, the course covers Islamic philosophy's historical emergence and evolution from its earliest stages to the present day. It examines the pivotal issues that have given rise to primary philosophical schools and explores the assimilation of Greek philosophical traditions into Islamic thought. The relationship between religion and philosophy, political authority and philosophical perspectives, self-awareness and personal identity, and the intersection of scientific knowledge and philosophy are also addressed. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach that combines historical insights with contemporary perspectives. They are prompted to critically analyze and relate philosophical issues, debates, and theoretical concepts to present-day concerns, thus fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter and its ongoing significance.
Learning Outcomes
Evaluate and critically analyze key theories, problems, and debates in Islamic philosophy, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of their significance.
Independently analyze materials related to Islamic philosophy, critically engaging with different interpretations and perspectives.
Construct well-structured and coherent arguments, providing systematic exposition and supporting evidence for personal viewpoints in Islamic philosophy.
Illustrate a deep understanding of non-Western intellectual traditions, particularly within Islamic philosophy, and compare them with Western philosophical frameworks.
Display a critical understanding of the pre-modern Islamic world’s major philosophical and systematic theological traditions, their interconnections, and their historical development.
Utilize relevant primary sources in translation, demonstrating familiarity with their content and employing them as evidence in analyzing Islamic philosophical concepts.
Examine, contextualize, and interpret historic materials within Islamic philosophy, considering their historical, cultural, and intellectual contexts.
Evaluate and critically assess scholarly interpretations of pre-modern Islamic philosophy, discerning their strengths, weaknesses, and potential implications on understanding the subject matter.
Apply interdisciplinary approaches, integrating knowledge and methodologies from philosophy, history, theology, and related fields, to analyze and evaluate complex issues in Islamic philosophy.
Evaluate and self-assess personal progress in Islamic philosophy, identifying areas for improvement and demonstrating increased confidence in researching Islamic philosophy.
Demonstrate the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships and establish meaningful connections with the College, students, the community, community partners, and professionals from other fields.