Assignment Isalam Ulil Albab

AYMAN HANI (23312241)

Some insights from the speech by Prof. Dr. Alparslan Açıkgenç, who is a Turkish
philosopher and professor of Islamic philosophy and scienc :

1- He argues that the term "civilization" is ill-defined and often used loosely. They propose
a four-dimensional model of civilization encompassing material, intellectual, spiritual,
and moral aspects, which interact and influence one another. A civilization's success is
determined by its ability to balance and integrate these dimensions.

2- He criticizes modern Western civilization for its excessive materialism and neglect of
spirituality and morality. They attribute many modern problems, such as environmental
degradation, social injustice, moral decline, and spiritual emptiness, to this imbalance.
They also note that Western civilization is not monolithic and harbors internal
contradictions and conflicts.

3- Conversely, he praises Islamic civilization for its holistic and balanced approach to the
four dimensions of civilization. They assert that Islam offers a comprehensive
worldview that harmonizes material and spiritual, rational and intuitive, individual and
collective, and temporal and eternal aspects. They also highlight Islamic civilization's
achievements and contributions in various fields of knowledge and culture.

4- He advocates for dialogue and cooperation among diverse civilizations, particularly

between the Islamic and Western worlds. Such interactions can dispel
misunderstandings and foster common ground to address global challenges. They
underscore the importance of mutual respect and appreciation for the diversity and
richness of human civilizations.
 Valuable notes from the 2 speech, at least 5 points

1- The speaker defines civilization as a human construct rooted in values,

norms, and institutions that shape a group's collective identity and
behavior.

2- The speaker advocates for establishing a model civilization, serving as a

benchmark for evaluating and enhancing existing civilizations.

3- The speaker proposes that this model civilization should be anchored in

universal values of justice, peace, human dignity, and harmony, derived
from our shared human essence and divine guidance.

4- The speaker suggests that the model civilization should also embrace the
diversity and pluralism of human cultures and traditions, fostering
dialogue and cooperation among them.

5- he speaker cites the Islamic civilization as a potential exemplar for this

model civilization, given its rich legacy of scientific, cultural, and social
achievements, and its comprehensive worldview encompassing both
spiritual and material aspects of life