From the Divine to the Human: Contemporary Islamic Thinkers on Evil, Suffering, and the Global Pandemic

This book explores the question of evil and suffering from a global perspective,focusing on human vulnerability,potential,and resilience. It offers new perspectives based on pre-modern and contemporary materials,enriching the field of global philosophy of religion and transforming contemporary debates on the nature of evil and suffering.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume explores the multifaceted manifestations of evil and suffering in our contemporary world,ranging from the global COVID-19 pandemic to climate change-related challenges and the complexities of palliative care. Instead of following traditional paths in philosophy of religion that often concentrate on divine attributes and the God-world relationship,this book offers a fresh perspective by focusing on human vulnerability, potential, and resilience. Spanning a wide range of topics,from the transformative power of love and virtue ethics in Sufism to the necessity of suffering and the spiritual significance of the body,the contributors present innovative ideas rooted in both pre-modern and contemporary sources. By offering new insights into the global philosophy of religion,this book aims to revolutionize contemporary discussions on the nature of evil and suffering,appealing to scholars and researchers across various disciplines, including Islamic philosophy, religious studies, Sufism, and theology.

Introduction:
The study of evil and suffering has long been a central theme in philosophical and theological discourse, grappling with the profound questions of why bad things happen to good people and how we can find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. In our contemporary world, the prevalence and complexity of these issues have only intensified, with the emergence of new challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and social injustices.
Theoretical Approaches:
Traditional philosophical approaches to the study of evil and suffering often focus on divine attributes and the God-world relationship. These approaches argue that evil is a result of the actions of supernatural beings or forces, such as God or Satan, or that it is a necessary consequence of human free will. However, there are also alternative approaches that challenge these traditional perspectives.
One such approach is the philosophy of human vulnerability, which emphasizes the inherent weakness and fragility of human beings. According to this perspective, evil is not necessarily the result of supernatural forces or human free will, but rather a result of the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors.
Another approach is the philosophy of potential, which emphasizes the inherent capacity for good and growth in human beings. According to this perspective, evil is not a permanent state of being but rather a temporary setback that can be overcome through effort, resilience, and support.
A third approach is the philosophy of resilience, which emphasizes the ability of individuals and communities to adapt and recover from adversity. According to this perspective, evil is not a defeat but rather an opportunity for growth and transformation.
Practical Dimensions:
The study of evil and suffering also has practical implications for addressing these issues in our daily lives. For example, the philosophy of human vulnerability can help us understand the factors that contribute to human suffering, such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma. By recognizing these factors, we can work to create policies and programs that promote social justice and reduce human vulnerability.
The philosophy of potential can help us develop strategies for promoting positive change and growth, such as education, mentorship, and support programs. By nurturing individuals' potential and promoting their growth, we can create a more just and equitable society.
The philosophy of resilience can help us build stronger communities and individuals who are better equipped to cope with adversity. By developing resilience skills and promoting a sense of community, we can create a more supportive and nurturing environment that can help individuals overcome challenges and thrive.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the study of evil and suffering is a complex and multifaceted field that requires a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach. By focusing on human vulnerability, potential, and resilience, we can develop new perspectives that can help us understand and address these issues in our contemporary world. By promoting social justice, nurturing individual growth, and building resilient communities, we can create a more just and equitable society that is better equipped to cope with the challenges of evil and suffering.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032443409