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Arabic Philosophy (B-KUL-W0AM9A)

4 ECTSEnglish26 Second term
De Smet Daniel
This course is taught this academic year, but not next year. This course is taught this academic year, but not next year.
POC Philosophy (internationaal)

Aims

The purpose of this course  is to introduce some main topics of Arabic philosophy, such as cosmology, metaphysics, theory of knowledge, prophetology and the salvation of the human soul.

At the end of the course, students should have a general knowledge of the nature, concerns, aims and sources of Arabic philosophy. They should be able to place the topics discussed during the course in their historical and philosophical context, understanding how Arabic philosophers used their Greek sources and adapted them to the new cultural and religious environment of Islam. They should also be able to situate Arabic philosophy in relation to Latin Medieval philosophy. Finally, students should have acquired enough background to read by themselves an Arabic philosophical text (in translation) and to understand its main issues.

Previous knowledge

No knowledge of Arabic is required, as all texts are read in English translation. However, some background in ancient Greek philosophy, including logic, and in the general history and principles of Islam is recommended.

Is included in these courses of study

Activities

4 ects. Arabic Philosophy (B-KUL-W0AM9a)

4 ECTSEnglishFormat: Lecture26 Second term
De Smet Daniel
POC Philosophy (internationaal)

Content

After a general and introductory survey of Arabic philosophy, we will read in R. Walzer's English translation (parts of) al-Fârâbî'sPerfect State, one of the main works of early Arabic philosophy (10th century). The teacher will extensively comment and analyse the text, with special attention for the way the Arabic philosopher uses and adapts issues taken from ancient Greek sources to his own purposes. The main topics discussed are: God and the structure of the cosmos; the human soul; theory of knowledge; prophecy; the place of philosophy and of the philosopher in society; the ideal and perfect state.

Course material

Textbook: R. Walzer, Al-Farabi on the Perfect State, Oxford, Clarendon Press, 1985.

Recommended reading: P. Adamson & R. Taylor (eds.), The Cambridge Companion to Arabic Philosophy, Cambridge, University Press, 2005.

(Both books are available in the library of the HIW)

Format: more information

The students are requested to read by themselves some chapters of the Cambridge Companion to Arabic Philosophy. They are also requested to read in advance the text that will be discussed during the course. As the course takes a seminar form, it is necessary to attend every week, to take notes and to ask questions or clarifications if necessary.

Evaluation

Evaluation: Arabic Philosophy (B-KUL-W2AM9a)

Type : Exam during the examination period
Description of evaluation : Oral
Type of questions : Open questions

Explanation


Each student will receive a portion of the text read during the course and will have to answer some questions about its contents.