Dissertation: Animal ethics in Islamic philosophy

Behnam Khodapanah’sdissertation dives into how animals are viewed and valued in Islamic philosophy by focusing on the teachings of two major Iranian Muslim philosophers: Avicenna (980–1037 CE) and Mullā Ṣadrā (1572–1635/6 CE). By comparing their ideas with modern animal ethics, Khodapanah aims to uncover what these ancient perspectives can teach us today about the moral treatment of animals. 

Khodapanah’s dissertation explores the moral standing of animals within Islamic philosophy, focusing on two prominent Iranian Muslim philosophers, Avicenna (980–1037 CE) and Mullā Ṣadrā (1572–1635/6 CE), in comparison to contemporary animal ethics.  

The study begins by looking at the arguments made by key contemporary animal ethicists – Peter Singer, Tom Regan, and Martha Nussbaum. These ethicists have shaped how we understand the moral status of animals in today's world. Understanding their views provides a modern ethical framework for analyzing the historical figures and exploring how they might address today's issues.  

Strict lines or continuity between humans and animals? 

Next, Avicenna's views on animals are explored. His philosophy suggests that animals are limited because they lack a rational soul, a key difference between them and humans. Analyzing his ideas regarding animals' capabilities and limitations provides a foundation for understanding his stance on their moral value. 

Then the research turns to Mullā Ṣadrā, whose views on animals are more flexible than Avicenna’s. While Avicenna drew sharp lines between humans and other species, Ṣadrā saw more continuity between them, which may have significant implications for animal ethics. 

By comparing these two thinkers, Khodapanah offers a fresh perspective on how religious and philosophical traditions can inform current discussions on the ethical treatment of animals.  

Behnam Khodapanah defends their doctoral dissertation “The Moral Status of Animals in Islamic Philosophy: A Comparative and Critical Study” on Saturday 

August 24 at 12 PM, Agora, Mattilanniemi 2. The opponent is professor Taneli Kukkonen (NYU Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) and the Custos is professor Jari Kaukua (University of Jyväskylä). 

Link to publication: https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/96439  

For more information: b.khodapanah@gmail.com