Islamization of Scientific Knowledge and the Islamic Worldview
Islamic Worldview and the Islamization of Human Sciences
There exists a direct relationship between the Islamic worldview and the Islamization of human (rational) sciences, especially in the context of modern scientific studies. When a dialogue is initiated between Islam and science, it not only clarifies their mutual relationship but also lays the groundwork for the Islamization of various intellectual disciplines. In this light, it becomes essential to welcome academic discussions between modern science and Islamic thought, so that Islamic perspectives can be articulated across disciplines and the Divine presence in natural phenomena can be clarified.
Historical Background
The movement for the Islamization of sciences gained momentum through Islamic science festivals and summits such as those held in London and Lahore during the 1970s. These events lit the early sparks of thought in the Muslim world, leading senior scholars to begin addressing the issue seriously.
Prominent Figures in the Movement
◈ Syed Naquib al-Attas
- A renowned scholar from Malaysia.
- Founded ISTAC (International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization) in 1987 to promote Islamic science.
◈ Ismail Raji al-Faruqi
- A Palestinian scholar who actively worked for the Islamization of Islamic sciences.
- Established the International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT).
◈ Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- Criticized modern science during the 1980s and 1990s using the foundation of the Islamic worldview.
- His work Knowledge and the Sacred elaborates on this topic in depth.
Key Views of Prof. Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- Modern Western science is only a partial interpretation of natural science.
- Western science is not value-neutral; it reflects a specific ideological and ethical framework.
- Muslims must analyze and assess modern science and technology through the lens of Islamic thought.
- Muslims should master modern science but at the same time, understand and critically evaluate its foundations.
Reality of Western Science
Prof. Nasr held Western science responsible for an irresponsible approach toward human life and nature. According to him:
- Nature has been treated not as a relational being but as a resource, leading to catastrophic consequences such as environmental pollution and global warming.
Importance of Islamizing Human Sciences
Prof. Nasr also emphasized that it is time to reconstruct modern scientific knowledge based on the Islamic worldview. He argued that:
- Einstein's theory of relativity and modern quantum physics have revealed that scientific phenomena imply the intervention of Allah.
Conclusion
According to the Islamic worldview, the process of Islamizing modern scientific knowledge is unprecedented in human history. What is now required is that Muslims, through modern science and Islamic theology, strive to reshape knowledge in accordance with Islamic principles.
