Ibn Sina-Descartes Metaphysics (Book)

Avicenna-Descartes Metaphysics, authored by H. Ömer Özden and published by Dergâh Yayınları as part of its “Contemporary Islamic Thought” series, is a study that examines the interactions and comparisons between Islamic and Western philosophy within a metaphysical framework. The book aims to reveal the continuity and mutual influence of philosophical traditions across different civilizations by specifically comparing the metaphysical thought of Avicenna (980–1037) and René Descartes (1596–1650). First published in May 1996, the work consists of 260 pages and has reached its third edition as of March 2018.

Content and Thematic Structure

Avicenna-Descartes Metaphysics begins with the fundamental observation that the Islamic world encountered diverse cultures, particularly Greek philosophy, at a very early stage and adopted them through a non-reductive attitude of engagement, interpretation, critique, and selection. The book emphasizes that this process did not merely give rise to Islamic philosophy but also influenced, transformed, and enriched nearly all fields of Islamic scholarship—including kalam, Sufism, usul al-fiqh, and tafsir.

The book underscores that it is now widely recognized that Islamic scholarly efforts were the primary channels through which the products of Greek philosophy reached posterity. In this context, it is argued that comparisons between figures such as Plato and Ibn Arabi, Aristotle and al-Ghazali, and Ibn Rushd hold great significance. H. Ömer Özden’s work targets precisely this point: by offering comparative analyses and insights between Avicenna and Descartes within the framework of metaphysical issues, it seeks to contribute to the study of the history of Islamic philosophy in Türkiye.

The book provides a detailed analysis of how each philosopher approached metaphysical questions such as being, knowledge, God, soul, and body. Avicenna’s theory of emanation, the concept of the Necessary Being, and his theory of the soul are contrasted with Descartes’ cogito (“I think therefore I am”), his mind-body dualism, and his proofs for the existence of God. The book presents a profound inquiry into the extent to which Descartes, widely regarded as the founder of modern Western philosophy, was influenced by Islamic philosophy—particularly by Avicenna. This comparison offers valuable clues regarding intercivilizational knowledge transfer and the continuity of philosophical heritage.

Language and Style

The language and style of H. Ömer Özden’s Avicenna-Descartes Metaphysics are academic. The author presents complex metaphysical concepts and philosophical arguments in a clear and explanatory manner. The text engages with diverse viewpoints on the subject with an objective perspective. Özden’s comparative analysis enables readers to better understand the thought systems of both philosophers.

The Author’s Position and the Significance of the Work

H. Ömer Özden is a researcher who has made significant contributions to the field of comparative studies between Islamic and Western philosophy. Through this work, he has drawn attention to the points of intersection between Islamic and Western thought in Turkish intellectual history.

Avicenna-Descartes Metaphysics examines the possible interactions and parallels between Islamic philosophy and modern Western philosophy on a scientific basis. By demonstrating that Eastern and Western thought are not independent islands but deeply interconnected, the book contributes to intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.