Islamic Studies of Orientalists

Islamic Studies of Orientalists

An analytical study of the Orientalists' views on the relationship between religion and civilization with a critical approach to Will Durant's view

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate Professor, Al-Zahra University
2 PhD graduate from Islamic Azad University of Qom
Abstract
The relationship between religion and civilization and the role of religion in the dynamism and stagnation of civilization is a matter that has prompted many thinkers and civilization scholars to evaluate. Examining the perspectives of Orientalists is noteworthy due to the broad influence of their views on other scholars and academic centers. This research, using a descriptive-analytical approach and a comparative study method through library studies, evaluates and compares the viewpoints of Will Durant, as a representative of divergent thinkers, with some civilization-oriented Orientalists such as von Gronbium, Henry Lucas, and Anthony Hurani in their works, and explores their dual perspectives on the relationship between religion and civilization. The findings indicate that some Orientalists believe in a convergence between religion and civilization, considering religion as the essence of civilization, which, due to its timeliness, cultural formation, and the establishment of a link between the material and spiritual life, contributes to the vitality of civilization. Conversely, hidden fears within religion, its similarity to witchcraft, human origin, incompatibility with knowledge and freedom, have created grounds for regression and stagnation in civilization, and have reinforced an instrumental view of religion among divergent thinkers.
Keywords

Volume 2, Issue 3
January 0
Pages 141-170

  • Receive Date 30 September 2021
  • Revise Date 29 March 2022
  • Accept Date 18 March 2023