Instruction
Choose one of the following topics and discuss it 1500-2000 words using no outside sources. Please double space, paginate, staple, and have a cover sheet with a title. The cover page should be the only place where I see your name. Please include the word count and sign the cover page indicating your adherence to the honor code. The syllabus gives further instruction on essay writing
1. What is religion? Does Alfrabi's definition of justice adequately capture the phenomenon? How could you improve upon his definition? What kinds ofreligion are there? What is the relationship between religion and philosophy, according to Alfarabi? Are you persuaded? Explain the role of a first ruler and jurisprudence in his account of religion. Finally, why does Alfarabi turn to an extended discussion of Political Science in a book devoted to religion? Is religion political?
2. Evaluate Al-Ghazali's criticisms, especially in light of his praise of mysticism. Are there any redeemable parts of philosophy? Drawing upon your knowledge of Alfarabi, are Al-Ghazali s criticisms warranted?
3. Write a paper evaluating Al-Ghazali's The Rescuer from Error as an autobiographical work. What are the main sources of Al-Ghazali's intellectual crisis, and how, ultimately, does he emerge from it? Do you find his account of his rescue or deliverance persuasive or satisfactory?