Iqbal on Religion and Science: A Critique.

Abstract

This paper intends to highlight the salient features of Iqbal’s thought regarding reconstruction of religious thought and its linkage with Science. He has reiterated his aim in these words,

“It may fairly be argued that in view of the more recent developments of science, such as the nature of matter as ‘bottled-up light waves’, the idea of the universe as an act of thought, finiteness of space and time and Heisenberg’s principle of indeterminacy in Nature, the case for a system of rational theology is not so bad as Kant was led to think.”

Iqbal seems to be in a vigorous and rigorous state of mind to institute and launch a new and fresh theology based on the findings of modern science. The above quoted passage reveals the following aspects of his thought or better to say his foundational principles on which he wants to build the edifice or superstructure of his theology:

i- Scientific progress of Europe is a continuation of Islamic intellectual tradition, heritage and culture;

ii- There is absolutely no matter of apprehension to derive benefit from European advancement in rationality and modern disciplines;

iii- Fresh interpretation of Islamic beliefs and even their reconstruction is quite justified in the light of European thought.

The approach of Iqbal is spirited and confident. Like very many theologians of his time he is not afraid of judging beliefs in the light of science. Either his vision was correct or erroneous, valid or fallacious, is a separate issue but his determination and resolve to break the intellectual deadlock and stagnation are, nonetheless, laudable. This paper has tried to cover the range of Iqbal’s success in this endeavour.