Intro to Arabic Phil Theo

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

The course focuses on the rise and development of philosophy in the Arabic and Islamic Middle-Ages. The purpose of the course is to introduce students to some of the main issues dealt with by philosophers and theologians of classical Islam: What are the most fundamental components of reality? What is the status of universal or mental objects? What does it mean to be a thing? Is the world eternal or created? Is the connection between the generally accepted ideas of “cause” and “effect” a necessary one? What do the philosophers mean when they call to jihad? What is the legal status of philosophy? The course will explore such questions in the original writings of philosophers and theologians of classical Islam and is open to any student interested in learning more about the debates and discussions they triggered. No knowledge of Islam or Arabic is required and all readings are available in English. The course combines lecture with discussions stemming from a close reading of texts. Syllabus, assigned readings, documents for the course will be available through Blackboard as of the first day of class. Credits: 3 Prerequisites: None. No knowledge of Arabic or Islam is required. - This course meets the General Education requirement in Philosophy (non ethics). It also counts toward a major or a minor in Philosophy. - If you wish to count this course toward a major or a minor in Theology, please contact Prof. Christopher Steck in the Department of Theology.