A Brief Introduction to Islamic Philosophy

Although Islamic philosophy represents one of the most important philosophical traditions in the world, it has only recently begun to receive the attention it deserves in the non-Islamic world. This important text provides a concise and accessible introduction to the major movements, thinkers and concepts within that tradition, from the foundation of Islam to the present day. Ever since the growth of Islam as a religious and political movement, Muslim thinkers have sought to understand the theoretical aspects of their faith by using philosophical concepts. Leaman outlines this history and demonstrates that, although the development of Islamic philosophy is closely linked with Islam itself, its form is not essentially connected to religion, and its leading ideas and arguments are of general philosophical significance. The author illustrates the importance of Islamic thought within philosophy through the use of many modern examples. He describes and contrasts the three main movements in Islamic philosophy - Peripatetic, Sufi and Illuminationist - and examines the Persian as well as the Arabic traditions. Comprehensive coverage is given to key aspects of Islamic philosophy, including epistemology, ontology, politics, ethics and philosophy of language, providing readers with a full and rounded view of the discipline.The main markets for this book are in the areas of philosophy, Islamic studies, Middle Eastern studies, cultural studies, religious studies and theology. It will be accessible to second-year undergraduates and upwards and to the lay reader interested in philosophical and religious issues.

Table of Contents:
Preface. Author's Note. Abbreviations. 1. A Short History of Islamic Philosophy. 2. Main Controversies. 3. Knowledge. 4. Mysticism. 5. Ontology. 6. Ethics. 7. Politics. 8. The Question of Transmission. 9. Language. References and Bibliography. A Guide to Further Reading. Index.

About the Author :
Oliver Leaman is Professor of Philosophy at Liverpool John Moores University.

Review :
'As befits a professional philosopher, Professor Leaman examines the rise and development of Islamic philosophy philosophically. He is to be congratulated on a lucid work which will offer fresh insights to the scholar and provide a secure foundation for the student.' Professor Ian Richard Netton, Professor of Arabic Studies in the University of Leeds, Head of the Department of Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies and Director of the Centre for Medieval Studies 'In a stellar performance, Oliver Leaman has directed his comprehensive grasp of Islamic philosophy to show how its central inquiries engage current philosophical issues, all the while suggesting how the inherently mystical dimensions of present in some Islamic philosophers might enrich the western discussion. Through a presentation at once critical and engaging, we discover affinities and differences which illuminate our own understanding.' David B. Burrell, Hesburgh Professor of Philosophy and Theology, University of Notre Dame 'This well-written book introduces the reader to Islamic philosophy. Written by a professional philosopher, a respected expert in the field, it is a very valuable text for both lay persons and specialists.' Parviz Morewedge, Binghamton University, The State University of New York "few works give such an insight into Islamic philosophy as this, and for those who are interested in the thematic rather than historical approach, the book is ideal. It is written in a readable way, covering more than what can normally be expected from a brief introduction, avoiding unnecessary details and giving sufficient references for those who want to pursue the subject further" Muammer Iskenderoglu, University of Birmingham, Islam and Christian Relations 'This work engages with wide ranging themes that bear on the main topic. Leaman does not ignore any of the big issues ... His commitment to dealing with diverse topics is mirrored by a determination to summarise the thoughts of diverse but key philosophical writers within the Islamic tradition ... This is a valuable work.' Themelios 'Can one recommend Laman's text as a beginners' introduction to Islamic philosophy?...yes' Transcendent Philosophy