Muslim philosophies: A critical overview

Abstract

This paper aims to present a critical overview of the development of philosophical schools founded by Muslim thinkers in the context of Islamic civilisation. The emphasis of the paper is mostly on the reasons and causes of uneven development of this intellectual tradition in Muslim countries. I shall develop my arguments from within the philosophical framework of critical rationalism. While the views of various Muslim philosophers will be critically, though briefly, assessed, the role of other Muslim scholars such as theologians (mutakallimun), mystics ('urafa and Sufis) and jurists (fuqaha) in facilitating or hindering the harmonious growth of Muslims' philosophical heritage will also be touched upon.