On The Theoretical Problematic of Arabic Physical Science Or Why Did Arabic Science Fail To Achieve The Copernican Revolution?

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the underlying theoretical structure of Arabic physical science using Hegelian concepts, identifying a contradictory triad rooted in Platonism, Aristotelian philosophy, and Ptolemaic science, explaining its reformist rather than revolutionary nature.

Contribution

It introduces a Hegelian framework to understand Arabic science's contradictions and explains why it remained reformist instead of revolutionary compared to European science.

Findings

Identifies a contradictory triad in Arabic science rooted in classical philosophies.

Shows Arabic scientists aimed to resolve contradictions without fundamental paradigm shifts.

Explains the decline of Arabic rationalism as a factor in its scientific development.

Abstract

A Hegelian version of the concept of problematic is used to investigate the underlying theoretical unity and structure of Arabic physical science (physics, astronomy and chemistry). A contradictory triad (associated with Platonism, Aristotelian philosophy and Ptolemaic science) is identified at the heart of the Arabic project for physical science. The paper focuses on the valiant attempts made by leading Arabic scientists to overcome these contradictions without transcending or tearing apart the prevailing problematic. The following question is then addressed: why was Arabic physical science reformist, rather than revolutionary, unlike Renaissance European physical science? An answer is proposed in terms of the history, nature and decline of Arabic rationalism.