E-Book Overview
Although Islamic philosophy represents one of the most important philosophical traditions in the world, it has only relatively recently begun to receive attention in the non-Islamic world. This is a new edition of a successful introductory book, expanded and updated to take account of recent scholarship. It focuses on what is regarded as Islamic philosophy's golden age, and will appeal to students and to any general reader interested in this philosophical tradition.
E-Book Content
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AN INTRODUCTION TO CLASSICAL ISLAMIC PHILOSOPHY Islamic philosophy is a unique and fascinating form of thought, and particular interest lies in its classical (Greek-influenced) period, when many of the ideas of Greek philosophy were used to explore the issues and theoretical problems which arise in trying to understand the Qur’¯an and Islamic practice. In this revised and expanded edition of his classic introductory work, Oliver Leaman examines the distinctive features of classical Islamic philosophy and offers detailed accounts of major individual thinkers. In contrast to many previous studies that have treated this subject as only of historical interest, he offers analysis of the key arguments within Islamic philosophy so that the reader can engage with them and assess their strengths and weaknesses. His book will interest a wide range of readers in philosophy, religious studies and Islamic studies. O L I V E R L E A M A N is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Kentucky. He has written extensively on Islamic philosophy and is the author of A brief introduction to Islamic philosophy (). He is the editor of Friendship east and west: philosophical perspectives () and The future of philosophy () and co-editor of the History of Islamic philosophy () and the History of Jewish philosophy ().
AN INTRODUCTION TO CLASSICAL I