Comparing and Contrasting the Concept of the Intellect between Classical Muslim Philosophers with Modern Cognitive Psychologists: A Definitional Reflection

Abstract

The concept of the intellect greatly attracted Classical Muslim Philosophers and still attracts the attention of the Modern Cognitive Psychologists as well. A lot of scientific as well as non-scientific studies and researches have been carried out; unfortunately, this concept is still one of the most misunderstood concepts of human nature. The study presented and analyzed the opinions of the two groups, emphasizing their definition and understanding of what the intellect is, and what it entails, this culminated into a critical analysis of its relationship to knowledge production and acquisition. This is a qualitative study and it utilized textual analysis methodology. The study noted sharp differences in the definition and understanding of the intellect between Classical Muslim Philosophers whose understanding was mainly based on the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet, (pbuh) while Modern Cognitive Psychologists understanding was mainly based on personal opinions, observations and reasoning. The study views that this concept will continue to be misunderstood and vaguely defined since it is abstract in nature, a better and a sound understanding can be reached through authentic revealed knowledge.