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Rediscovering Arabic Science


Rediscovering Arabic Science www.saudiaramcoworld.com)
By Richard Covington
Saudi Aramco World (May/June 2007 edition)



For most westerners, and indeed for many Arabs, the spectacular achievements of Arabic-language science from the eighth through the 16th centuries come as a startling discovery, as if an unknown continent had suddenly appeared on the horizon. In mathematics, astronomy, medicine, optics, cartography, evolutionary theory, physics and chemistry, medieval Arab and Muslim scientists, scholars, doctors and mapmakers were centuries ahead of Europe. Centers for scientific research and experimentation emerged across Muslim lands?in Baghdad, Cairo, Damascus, Samarkand, Shiraz, Bukhara, Isfahan, Toledo, C?rdoba, Granada and Istanbul.



Paris-based author Richard Covington writes about culture, history and science for Smithsonian, The International Herald Tribune, U.S. News & World Report and the London Sunday Times. His e-mail is [email protected].
 

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Login to find out (July 8, 2007 at 8:53pm)
Peacetwou: Yes, I too feel that the Muslim world seems to have lagged behind the rest of the world in science. A grassroots effort that enforces Quranic inspiration and builds a strong foundation of scientific education throughout every fabric of Muslim society would be a good starting point to revive the interest of Muslim youth in science.
 
Login to find out (July 8, 2007 at 8:06pm)
A few days after I posted the article above, I came across another article www.islamicity.com) that urges the Muslim community and world leaders to regain their lost heritage of scientific knowledge that dominated the global scene in the centuries following revelation of the Quran. The article seems to be a good wake-up call and a candid appraisal that doesn?t sugarcoat the present situation.

Consider: Have we truly lost our scientific heritage? Why? How? When? Are there other priorities in the Muslim countries, priorities that have taken enthusiasm away from science? Has wealth from oil made the pursuit of science less vital? What can be done to improve the current situation? What are the roadblocks, if any? Are we being persecuted by wars/politics/injustice? Just brainstorming a few questions. Presenting the article for awareness; don?t shoot the messenger. Comments welcome.
 
Login to find out (July 8, 2007 at 7:15pm)
Masha Allah, muslims and arabs have contributed much in the way of science in the past. It is really a shame that we are not making much of an effort today. There are very few muslims who are contributing to the sciences. :( I would really like to see that change and the only way that will happen is when muslim parents and teachers reinforce the importance of education and contribution in the society.


Peace