Philosophers from Islam

The history of Islamic civilization is not just characterized by political, military, and economic success, but also the existence of great philosophers who contributed significantly towards the advancement of science.  Islam has always placed highest priority on seeking knowledge since the inception of its civilization and enjoys a rich intellectual heritage.  The Quran itself is an urgence to people to reflect, think, and acquire knowledge. It was the same drive that produced numerous Muslim thinkers who produced seminal work in the social sciences, astronomy, mathematics, medicine, and philosophy.

Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Al-Ghazali, Ibn Rushd, and Ibn Khaldun are five names that are well known to both Islamic and Western cultures, but there are more who were also exceptionally renowned. The writings of all these people have contributed significantly to the history of philosophy and science because they are all people who thought differently.  They were not only inheritors of the thought of ancient Greeks, but also trailblazers who integrated philosophy and Islamic ethics.  

1. Al-Farabi (872--950): Political Philosopher and Second Teacher

Al-Farabi has also been referred to as al-Mu'allim al-Thani, or the Second Teacher, after Aristotle.  The nickname reflects his elite status in Islamic philosophical tradition because he was able to assimilate the Greek philosophical legacy into Islamic learning.  Al-Farabi is renowned in political philosophy tradition for his conceptions of Madnah al-Filah, or the Ideal State.

The perfect state, for Al-Farabi, is one that is led by a ruler who is both politically wise and spiritually profound.

Such leaders are known as philosopher-kings since they have a deep understanding of what truth truly is and can lead their followers towards true pleasure. Plato strongly impacted this idea; however, Al-Farabi adapted it so that it would present an Islamic perspective. He emphasized that leaders and followers could only attain the highest possible degree of bliss if they submit to religious commandments. In addition to political philosophy, Al-Farabi produced significant works on music, metaphysics, and logic.  He authored, among others, Kitab al-Musiqa al-Kabir, an encyclopedic work on music which deals with the theory of harmony and the role of music in human life.  Al-Farabi's multi-disciplinary works indicate that Islamic philosophy is not just about metaphysics but also about practical studies which impact the lives of society. 

2. Ibn Sina (980--1037): Doctor Philosopher and Polymath

Perhaps among the most well-known Muslim scientists in the annals of science is Ibn Sina, or Avicenna in the Western world.  He was a polymath, physician, and philosopher who wrote extensive works on various fields.  His mind was already prodigious at a young age, and at the age of 18, he had mastered nearly all the sciences that existed during his time.

His most significant medical work, Al-Qanun fi al-Tibb (Canon of Medicine), was a standard university reference in Europe until the 17th century.  The book discusses not just diseases and drugs but also healthcare systems, diagnosis, and prevention.  Ibn Sina conducted a comprehensive study of metaphysics, soul, and being in philosophy.

One of his most significant concepts is the theory of wajib al-wujud (necessary being) and mumkin al-wujud (possible being).  In his opinion, God is the sole necessary being, and all others exist in dependence upon Him and are considered possible.  This theology had a significant impact on subsequent theology and was a significant source in Islamic metaphysics.

Ibn Sina also formulated ideas regarding the human spirit.  In his view, the soul is a substance that exists independently of the body but is closely connected with it.  This perspective would significantly influence Western psychology and philosophy in the future.  Through his writing, Ibn Sina integrated Islamic concepts with the philosophy of Aristotle and Neoplatonism and thereby set a new path for the advancement of Islamic philosophy.