Course Description
Islamic scholarship from the eighth through the fourteenth centuries. Principal topics covered will include the Qur'an and Qur'anic exegesis, the Hadith tradition, Islamic law, theology, philosophy, and Sufi mysticism.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional readings and a research paper along with more extensive examinations to reflect the additional responsibilities.
Athena Title
ISLAMIC THOUGHT
Prerequisite
Junior or senior standing or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered every even-numbered year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
The course will cover the fields of Islamic intellectual activity from the 8th through the 14th centuries. Principle topics covered will include: Qur'an and Qur'anic exegesis, study of Hadith (traditions of Muhammad), Islamic law, theology, philosophy, and Sufi mysticism. The course will discuss the Islamic point of view of these activities as well as the critical perspectives of Western scholars. In order to better understand the overall Islamic world view the course will also emphasize the contributions of intellectual endeavors in each of the above areas to the following areas of discourse: 1) Epistemological: What should the basis for valid knowledge be? 2) Ontological: What is real? 3) Anthropological: Who am I, Who is a human being as a whole entity? What is our identity? 4) Psychological: What does our consciousness consist of? 5) Teleological: What is the purpose and/or end of life? 6) Methodological: How can the purpose be achieved? In answering this question the course will pay particular attention to the methods of psychological change suggested by Islam. Communicate Effectively through Writing To strengthen skills in written composition, analysis, and presentation by means of projects such as essays, papers, reports, and examinations. Computer Literacy To enhance and facilitate computer literacy by the use of word processing, the web, email, and OASIS through research, preparation, and presentation of work such as oral class reports and completion of written assignments. Critical Thinking To foster critical thinking by engaging in activities such as classroom discussion and debate, essay examinations, and oral presentations. Moral Reasoning (Ethics) To assist in the continued development of moral and ethical reasoning and reflection by encouraging creative thinking regarding individual and community concerns and needs, the challenging of prejudices and stereotypes, and examining rational and ethical bases of constructive social interactions.
Topical Outline
Introduction to Islam, the Qur'an and Muhammad Qur'an: basic themes, structure, and history Hadith: the isnad, classification of hadith, hadith criticism, rating scholars Islamic Law Theology Philosophy Ethical Philosophy Sufism
Syllabus