Abstract

The exploration of Islamic philosophy within Western contexts underscores its transcultural significance and the impactful contributions of Muslim philosophers to global knowledge. Islamic philosophy serves as a testament to the ways in which Muslims engage with diverse cultures, civilisations, and religious traditions in their pursuit of truth. This engagement inevitably leads Muslim philosophers to encounter ideas and concepts that may be perceived as specific to Islam, other religions, or universally applicable.

This webinar aims to delve into Islam’s perception of the religious other through the lens of Islamic philosophy, shedding light on the concerns and considerations of Muslim philosophers as they engage with diverse religious perspectives. Additionally, the webinar seeks to unravel the role of Islamic philosophy in shaping a perspective of the religious other that aligns with the core tenets of the Islamic tradition. By doing so, it aims to foster a deeper understanding of the intersections between Islamic philosophy and inter-religious relations.

Furthermore, the webinar will examine the relevance of Islamic philosophy in navigating the complexities of inter-religious relations within the contemporary, plural societies of the Malay world. By addressing these objectives, the webinar aspires to contribute to the broader discourse on religious pluralism, fostering mutual understanding and dialogue in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

About the Speaker

Prof Datuk Dr Osman Bakar is currently Holder of Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology and Civilizational Studies and Renewal at the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). He is also Emeritus Professor in Philosophy of Science at University of Malaya. He was formerly Distinguished Professor and Director of Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Centre for Islamic Studies (SOASCIS), Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Dr Osman was also formerly Malaysia Chair of Islam in Southeast Asia at the Prince Talal al-Waleed Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, Georgetown University, Washington DC, and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Research) at University of Malaya. Dr Osman is author and editor of 40 books and more than 300 articles on various aspects of Islamic thought and civilization, particularly Islamic science and philosophy in which he is a leading authority. His most well-known books are Classification of Knowledge in Islam (1992) and Tawhid and Science (1992). His latest books are titled Al-Farabi: Life, Works and Significance (2018) (new second edition) and Colonialism in the Malay Archipelago: Civilizational Encounters (co-editor) (2020). He has been named among the 500 most influential Muslims in the world since 2009.