Islam and Evolution Al-Ghazālī and the Modern Evolutionary Paradigm

Description

This book attempts to equip the reader with a holistic and accessible account of Islam and evolution. It guides the reader through the different variables that have played a part in the ongoing dialogue between Muslim creationists and evolutionists. This work views the discussion through the lens of al-Ghazālī (1058-1111), a widely-known and well-respected Islamic intellectual from the medieval period. By understanding al-Ghazālī as an Ash’arite theologian, a particular strand of Sunni theology, his metaphysical and hermeneutic ideas are taken to explore if and how much Neo-Darwinian evolution can be accepted. It is shown that his ideas can be used to reach an alignment between Islam and Neo-Darwinian evolution. This book offers a detailed examination that seeks to offer clarity if not agreement in the midst of an intense intellectual conflict and polarity amongst Muslims. As such, it will be of great interest to scholars of Science and Religion, Theology, Philosophy of Religion, Islamic Studies, and Religious Studies more generally. Cover Endorsements Half Title Series Page Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Contents Acknowledgements Transliteration, Referencing, and Reused Material Introduction PART 1: Setting the context 1. What evolution is and isn’t 2. Christian responses to evolution PART 2: Islamic perspectives on evolution 3. Islamic scripture and evolution 4. Muslim opinions on evolution 5. Old texts, new masks: misreading evolution onto historical Islamic texts PART 3: Metaphysical considerations 6. Chance, naturalism, and inefficiency 7. Intelligent design 8. Morality and evolution PART 4: Hermeneutic considerations 9. Al-Ghazālī’s hermeneutics 10. Creationism or evolution in Islamic scripture? Conclusion Index