Avicenna’s Psychology English Fazlur Rahman
“Avicenna’s Psychology” is a critical English translation by Fazlur Rahman of the essential psychological section (Book II, Chapter VI) of Ibn Sīnā’s (Avicenna’s) philosophical compendium, Kitāb al-Najāt (The Book of Salvation). This seminal work is a concise yet comprehensive summary of Avicenna’s detailed philosophy of the soul (Nafs), covering the nature and functions of the vegetative, animal, and human souls, the internal and external senses, and the degrees of the Intellect. Rahman’s edition provides not just a translation, but also valuable historico-philosophical notes and textual improvements on the Cairo edition, making it an indispensable resource for scholars studying classical Islamic philosophy, medieval psychology, and Avicenna’s metaphysics of mind.
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Additional information
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Description
Overview
“Avicenna’s Psychology,” translated by the esteemed scholar Fazlur Rahman, presents a critical English rendition of a pivotal section from Ibn Sīnā’s renowned philosophical work, Kitāb al-Najāt (The Book of Salvation). This translation focuses on the intricate discussions found in Book II, Chapter VI, which delves into Avicenna’s profound understanding of the soul (Nafs). The text serves as an essential guide through Avicenna’s systematic exploration of the vegetative, animal, and human souls, alongside the roles of internal and external senses, and the various levels of Intellect. Rahman’s translation does not merely convey Avicenna’s thoughts; it enriches the reader’s understanding with insightful historico-philosophical notes and textual enhancements that address the limitations of earlier editions, particularly the Cairo version.
Key Themes
- Scholars and students of classical Islamic philosophy seeking a critical translation of Avicenna’s work.
- Individuals interested in the historical development of psychological thought in the medieval period.
- Researchers focusing on the metaphysics of mind and the philosophical underpinnings of consciousness.
- Philosophy enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive introduction to Avicenna’s theories on the soul.
- Those exploring the connections between spirituality and psychology within the Islamic intellectual tradition.





