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The Physical Theory of KalÄm
Atoms, Space, and Void in Basrian MuâtazilÄ« Cosmology
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This book reconstructs the theories of matter and space of the mutakallimūn of the tenth and eleventh centuries A.D. It uses texts which have only recently become available.
The book presents material which challenges our previous understanding of kalÄm atomism. In particular, it analyzes the concept of atoms as a 'space-occupying object' without dimension yet having magnitude. It examines the manner of the atom's occupation of space, and discusses arguments for and against unoccupied spaces or the void.
A detailed examination of the paradoxical nature of such an atom follows. The argument is made that a 'discrete' rather than a 'continuous' conception of space, matter, time, motion and indeed geometry underlies kalÄm physical theory. In this respect, the kalÄm atom is similar to the Epicurean minimal part.
The book presents material which challenges our previous understanding of kalÄm atomism. In particular, it analyzes the concept of atoms as a 'space-occupying object' without dimension yet having magnitude. It examines the manner of the atom's occupation of space, and discusses arguments for and against unoccupied spaces or the void.
A detailed examination of the paradoxical nature of such an atom follows. The argument is made that a 'discrete' rather than a 'continuous' conception of space, matter, time, motion and indeed geometry underlies kalÄm physical theory. In this respect, the kalÄm atom is similar to the Epicurean minimal part.
Alnoor Dhanani, Ph.D. (1991) in History of Science, Harvard University.
'...makes an important contribution to our understanding...'
Metasciena, 1994.
Metasciena, 1994.
All those interested in intellectual history, history of science, philosophy, and theology in Islam, Antiquity, Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages, the relationship between religion, philosophy and science.