Al-Ghazali
Islamic world, eleventh–twelfth centuries
He examined the reach of philosophical demonstration and the place of spiritual practice in knowledge.
Historical context
Al-Ghazali wrote in the medieval Islamic world on theology, philosophy, and spiritual practice. His work enters debates over what can be rationally demonstrated.
Overview
Accepting a reasoning technique leaves open the assessment of conclusions reached through it. His criticism distinguishes demonstrations, philosophical assumptions, and questions involving religious knowledge.
Main claims
Logical rigour allows philosophical claims to be examined without taking their metaphysical conclusions as established.
Debates and nuances
His critique of certain philosophers also makes use of logical and argumentative tools.
This entry provides educational context.