Iqbal’s Poetic Vision, Metaphysics, and Evolution (Islam & Science)

By: Logan David Siler

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Synopsis: This book explores Muhammad Iqbal&’s poetic vision of a universe in a state of becoming, and, by putting this vision in conversation with contemporary metaphysical models, articulates the contribution Iqbal&’s vision makes to discussions about Islamic theology, philosophy, and science. To do so, the book articulates Iqbal&’s critique of the Islamic tradition and distinguishes his system from classical Islamic thought while also highlighting his positive influences in this regard (Al-Biruni, Suhrawardi, etc). It explores features of Iqbal&’s vision in light of contemporary metaphysical models by emphasizing three key elements of his thought—metaphysics of becoming, panentheism and panpsychism. While locating Iqbal within the spectrum of these particular schools of thought, Logan David Siler discusses the strengths of his position, and reveals the relevance of his thought to the religion and science conversation—particularly in the realm of evolutionary biology. It is these realms of thought that articulate the most formidable challenges to the theistic view. Yet, Iqbal offers a vision which provides a means to challenge the more metaphysical claims of scientism. Additionally, Siler critiques the shortcomings of Iqbal's vision and offers suggestions for how to improve it.