Muḥsin Mahdī was a leading authority on Arabian history, philology, and philosophy, with a particular interest in political philosophy. His work delved deeply into the examination of medieval Arabic, Hebrew, and Latin texts, aiming to apply rigorous critical edition methods to these classical works. Mahdī was especially dedicated to the recovery, editing, and interpretation of Alfarabi's writings. His scholarly legacy lies in his tireless pursuit of manuscripts and his endeavor to establish new standards in Arabic philology and philosophy.
Offers an analysis of the work of Alfarabi, the founder of Islamic political
philosophy. This philosophical engagement with the writings of and about
Alfarabi is suitable for those interested in medieval political philosophy.
A Study in the Philosophic Foundation of the Science of Culture
323 pages
12 hours of reading
The study delves into the contributions of 14th-century Arab historian Ibn Khaldun, who pioneered a unique science of history and culture influenced by Plato, Aristotle, and Islamic thought. It highlights his belief that history is more closely tied to human action than political philosophy, addressing a gap in ancient scholarship. The book analyzes Islamic historiography and Ibn Khaldun's methodology, emphasizing the significance of his reflections on history and their implications for understanding culture and the art of history.