Breaking with Athens

Alfarabi as Founder

Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, Philosophy, Epistemology, Ancient
Cover of the book Breaking with Athens by Christopher A. Colmo, Lexington Books
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Christopher A. Colmo ISBN: 9780739152621
Publisher: Lexington Books Publication: March 28, 2005
Imprint: Lexington Books Language: English
Author: Christopher A. Colmo
ISBN: 9780739152621
Publisher: Lexington Books
Publication: March 28, 2005
Imprint: Lexington Books
Language: English

In this controversial new book, Christopher A. Colmo offers a view of the 10th century Arab philosopher Alfarabi that draws attention to a previously unremarked aspect of his philosophic project. Colmo argues that as a philosopher Alfarabi felt compelled to question the philosophic tradition as deeply as he might question religious tradition, and this he did with such power and brilliance that the result was a new philosophic perspective. With unique access to both Islamic and pagan philosophical traditions, Alfarabi took the side of Greek philosophy as representative of human reason and defended its ultimate autonomy. However, Alfarabi went further, moving away from Plato and Aristotle's vision of philosophy as divine to an understanding of philosophy in a way that allowed it to be seen as knowledge and action in the service of human power and happiness. Alfarabi offers a powerful new answer to the question, why philosophy? His subtle defense of and debate with the ancients raises questions of hermeneutics as well as substantive questions of philosophy, politics, and theology. Breaking With Athens sheds new light on Alfarabi's enduring answers to perennial questions, making it essential for students of philosophy, political science, theology, and the history of ideas.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

In this controversial new book, Christopher A. Colmo offers a view of the 10th century Arab philosopher Alfarabi that draws attention to a previously unremarked aspect of his philosophic project. Colmo argues that as a philosopher Alfarabi felt compelled to question the philosophic tradition as deeply as he might question religious tradition, and this he did with such power and brilliance that the result was a new philosophic perspective. With unique access to both Islamic and pagan philosophical traditions, Alfarabi took the side of Greek philosophy as representative of human reason and defended its ultimate autonomy. However, Alfarabi went further, moving away from Plato and Aristotle's vision of philosophy as divine to an understanding of philosophy in a way that allowed it to be seen as knowledge and action in the service of human power and happiness. Alfarabi offers a powerful new answer to the question, why philosophy? His subtle defense of and debate with the ancients raises questions of hermeneutics as well as substantive questions of philosophy, politics, and theology. Breaking With Athens sheds new light on Alfarabi's enduring answers to perennial questions, making it essential for students of philosophy, political science, theology, and the history of ideas.

More books from Lexington Books

Cover of the book Social Functions of Synagogue Song by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book The Weimar Moment by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Muslim Interpreters in Colonial Senegal, 1850–1920 by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Scope and Theory of Public Administration by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book The Chinese in Cuba, 1847-Now by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Removing the Commons by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Circles on the Mountain by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Memorials in Berlin and Buenos Aires by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Re-reading Derrida by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book The Ecology of Money by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Globalization, Gender Politics, and the Media by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book The Origins of Shamanism, Spirit Beliefs, and Religiosity by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Neighborhood Change and Neighborhood Action by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book The Good Life and the Greater Good in a Global Context by Christopher A. Colmo
Cover of the book Immigrant and Migrant Workers Organizing in Canada and the United States by Christopher A. Colmo
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy