Question 1

Materialism, as a philosophy that denies non-material existence and metaphysics, gained popularity due to various factors.

Accepted Answer

Materialism is a philosophical perspective that confines existence to the physical world, governed by the laws of matter, time, space, and human senses. It dismisses anything beyond this realm as mere illusion. This perspective rejects the concept of metaphysics and non-material existence, including the existence of God.

The reasons behind adopting a materialistic viewpoint are significant. It's insightful to explore the factors that led to the rise and popularity of materialism. For instance, materialism gained traction in Iran during the 1950s and 1960s.

However, it's important to note that adopting a materialistic perspective of nature, as a tangible, evolving reality, doesn't necessarily contradict the belief in God. In fact, the consistent laws of nature can be seen as a reflection of God's wisdom. Therefore, studying the evolution of materialism can potentially lead to a deeper understanding of God, as suggested in the Quran.

The focus here is not on this form of materialism. Instead, the aim is to explain the reasons and factors that led to the rise of a form of materialism that denies all non-material existence. The goal is to understand how this rejection of metaphysics and God came about.

Question 2

Materialism has historical roots dating back to ancient times, predating modern science and even observed in pre-Islamic eras.

Accepted Answer

Materialism, the belief in only physical matter and dismissing the spiritual or supernatural as illusions, dates back centuries, including the era before Socrates in ancient Greece. This perspective wasn't unique to the Greeks; in the pre-Islamic era, similar views existed, seeing life as a mere cycle of birth and death, without any concrete evidence to support these beliefs.

The Quran challenged this materialistic view, which predates the rise of modern science. Materialism's history is long, with ancient philosophers also rejecting metaphysics, focusing only on what's observable and physically provable. This belief persisted throughout Islamic history, notably during the Abbasid era, where debates between materialists and theologians flourished.

A significant event involved Imam Al-Sadiq and his companion Al-Mofadhal, who encountered atheists challenging prophethood. Imam Al-Sadiq's subsequent detailed speeches, compiled into the book "Tawhid Al-Mofadhal," offered a comprehensive rebuttal to materialist arguments.

Islam's response to materialism has been through intellectual discourse rather than force. The story of Al-Mofadhal and Imam Al-Sadiq exemplifies the power of knowledge and understanding in addressing doubts and misconceptions about faith and materialism.

Question 3

Materialism is viewed as a deviation from the natural human tendency towards monotheism, often based on skeptical assumptions rather than factual understanding.

Accepted Answer

People are naturally inclined towards monotheism and the belief in a higher power. This instinctive orientation is challenged by materialism. This viewpoint is considered an unusual departure from the innate human instinct.

Religion and the belief in God can undoubtedly provoke philosophical questions and doubts. This is particularly true for those who are not deeply familiar with theological studies. However, these doubts, when approached with sincerity and openness, can pave the way to a deeper understanding. On the other hand, skepticism that exists merely for the sake of questioning can be destructive and unproductive.

The primary audience for this explanation appears to be individuals who view materialism as the ultimate truth about reality. Despite the assertive claims of materialism, it is argued that it is, in fact, a form of damaging skepticism that should not be accepted as an absolute truth. This argument is supported by a verse from the Quran, which suggests that materialists base their beliefs on assumptions rather than concrete knowledge.

In conclusion, the natural inclination of humans leans towards monotheism. Materialism, on the other hand, is seen as an aberration that requires further exploration and explanation.

Question 4

The rise and fall of materialism, distinct from the progress of science, reflect a complex interplay of historical and social factors, demonstrating that scientific knowledge and spiritual beliefs are not mutually exclusive.

Accepted Answer

Materialism wasn't solely a product of scientific progress, contrary to what some might believe. Materialistic tendencies have been present since ancient times, but the rise of materialism as a dominant philosophy in Europe was due to a complex mix of historical and social factors. To put it simply, one's belief or disbelief in metaphysics doesn't necessarily align with their scientific knowledge.

There have been many renowned scientists who held spiritual beliefs, while some materialists lacked scientific expertise. For instance, Einstein, one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century, maintained his faith despite his scientific brilliance. This goes to show that the idea that science inevitably leads to materialism doesn't hold water.

The decline of extreme materialism in the 20th century further debunks this notion. While scientific theories might have played a part, other factors such as Europe's social history likely had a significant role. The rise and fall of materialism over the years can't be attributed solely to the progress of science. It's a complex phenomenon with multiple contributing factors.

In conclusion, science and faith aren't inherently at odds with each other. Both religious individuals and skeptics can possess scientific knowledge. The emergence of modern materialism was a result of intricate historical factors, not just an inevitable outcome of scientific advancement.

Question 5

The church's simplistic portrayal of God and authoritarian practices, along with the rise of scientific knowledge, led to a decline in its influence and a reevaluation of the relationship between faith and science.

Accepted Answer

Historically, the church has played a significant role in shaping people's understanding of God, often with negative consequences. In the Middle Ages, for instance, the church's depiction of God as a simple, human-like figure was at odds with the growing body of scientific knowledge, especially within Christian communities. This discrepancy led many to reject their faith as scientific findings began to challenge and contradict the church's theological teachings. In contrast, Islamic philosophers were able to more effectively reconcile their faith with scientific knowledge.

Walter Lindberg observed that societal and religious influences have a profound impact on people's beliefs. When scientific reasoning disproved traditional religious ideas, many people began to question and ultimately abandon their faith. This trend was further fueled by the church's inaccurate portrayal of God.

Moreover, the church's authoritarian nature, characterized by strict doctrines and violent enforcement methods, drove many believers away. The Inquisition, known for its harsh punishment of those who disagreed with the church, further undermined the church's spiritual mission. Instead of being a source of guidance and love, religion became associated with violence and oppression.

In the realm of science, individuals like Auguste Comte highlighted how God's role in explaining natural phenomena was diminishing. As scientific knowledge expanded, materialistic explanations began to replace the idea of divine intervention, reducing God's perceived involvement in the natural world. This shift is indicative of a larger trend where scientific understanding is increasingly pushing out the need for religious explanations.

In conclusion, the church's methods of portraying God and enforcing religious doctrine have been widely criticized and have seen a decrease in influence. This has opened the door for a reevaluation of the relationship between faith, spirituality, and rational, scientific thought.

Question 6

Perceiving God as merely a part of the world subject to scientific discovery is flawed; instead, God should be understood as the creator of the entire universe, with everything in it, known or unknown.

Accepted Answer

Understanding the divine presence in the universe requires a precise interpretation. Some people perceive God as just another element of the world, assigned with a specific function in its operations. They seek God only in the unexplored, implying that scientific advancements diminish God's role. However, this reasoning is significantly flawed.

God is the creator of the entire world, surpassing the boundaries of time and space. Everything, whether known or unknown, is a testament to God's capabilities. It is imprudent to anticipate "discovering" God through scientific means. God is not just another occurrence in the world. The world in its totality is a creation of God.

It is incorrect to categorize parts of creation as either the work of God or nature. God is the creator of everything, operating through the natural order. The entire universe should be perceived as God's unified creation, rather than dividing it and questioning the origins of its parts. God is the originator of everything, using natural causes as tools to execute His will.

Question 7

Comte's division of human history into divine, philosophical, and scientific stages oversimplifies the evolution of thought, as Islamic philosophy suggests that these explanations can coexist within a single thinker's worldview.

Accepted Answer

Auguste Comte proposed a division of human history into three distinct phases, each characterized by a different way of explaining phenomena. The first phase, known as the divine stage, was marked by people attributing events to supernatural entities such as gods. The second phase, the philosophical stage, saw people beginning to grasp the concept of causality - the idea that every event has a cause. However, they were still unable to identify the specific causes. The third and final phase, the scientific stage, was characterized by people using observation and experimentation to identify the specific natural causes of phenomena.

However, this division, while it may seem logical at first glance, does not accurately represent the evolution of human thought as per Islamic philosophy. According to this perspective, the progression of thought among history's greatest thinkers did not follow Comte's three-stage model. Instead, Islamic philosophy posits that divine, philosophical, and scientific explanations can all coexist within a single thinker's worldview.

In other words, a comprehensive thinker would consider all possible causes of an event, whether they be supernatural, philosophical, or scientific. This suggests that Comte's theory of historical phases overlooked a fourth, comprehensive method. His categorization failed to account for the way in which the most brilliant minds have managed to integrate multiple ways of understanding reality.

Question 8

European philosophy's limited engagement with theological issues has led to the rise of materialism, whereas Islamic philosophy offers a more comprehensive understanding of existence and causation.

Accepted Answer

European philosophical concepts have certain limitations that have driven people towards materialism. These concepts have not delved as deeply into theological issues as Islamic philosophy has. Many topics that have sparked extensive debate in Europe are fundamental in Islamic philosophy. There are even instances where European philosophy presents ideas that seem humorous, yet they are hailed as significant concepts. There are also topics that European philosophical standards have struggled to adequately address, contributing to the rise of materialism.

Take, for instance, the concept of the First Cause in European philosophy. Islamic philosophy offers a more solid viewpoint on this matter. It posits that the essence of existence is self-sufficient and primary. The requirement for a cause arises from limitations in the degree of existence. Pure existence is inherently independent, while limited existence becomes dependent and contingent.

Existence can be viewed as a spectrum, ranging from pure to limited. The purest form of existence is inherently independent, similar to the First Cause. As existence becomes more limited, it becomes insufficient and requires causes. The essence of causation is not the emergence of existence from non-existence, but rather the deviation from pure existence. Even a contingent being that has existed eternally would require a cause due to its limited existence.

To sum it up, not all things require a cause, only those with insufficient existence do. The First Cause is independent, not because of an unexplained exception, but because its essence is pure existence. It's a misconception to assume that pure existence could have been different. Existence is essentially as it is. The universe exhibits signs of dependence and need. However, the First Cause must be pure, unlimited existence, which is understood through its creations.

Question 9

The perceived conflict between monotheism and evolution stems from misunderstandings and can be reconciled; scientific theories, including evolution, are not absolute and can coexist with religious beliefs.

Accepted Answer

There's a perceived clash between the belief in one God, or monotheism, and the scientific theory of evolution. However, this doesn't mean they can't coexist harmoniously.

It's often thought that there's a struggle between the idea of creationism, which is the belief that the universe and life originated from specific acts of divine creation, and the concept of evolution. This conflict arises from the historical Western belief that God's creation of the world resulted in fixed, unchangeable species, which seems to contradict the idea of evolution. As science has progressed, the theory of evolution has gained widespread acceptance, leading some to believe that science and religion are in opposition.

However, this viewpoint can be challenged on several fronts. Firstly, scientific theories are not set in stone; they are uncertain and subject to change. Therefore, they shouldn't be used as a reason to dismiss religious beliefs. Secondly, genetic research has shown that acquired traits aren't passed down through generations, and evolution involves sudden mutations, not just slow, gradual changes. Thirdly, religious texts could be reinterpreted in light of new scientific discoveries. Lastly, even if the theory of evolution contradicted one religion's explanation of human origins, it wouldn't necessarily disprove the existence of God.

Two assumptions often lead to the belief that evolution contradicts monotheism: 1) It undermines the argument from design, and 2) It introduces the role of coincidence, which seems to contradict the idea of divine will and knowledge. However, these assumptions can be challenged. The complex design of living organisms can't be fully explained by gradual evolution, suggesting the presence of a creator. Furthermore, what may seem like coincidence or chance from a limited perspective could be part of a larger, intentional plan from a higher viewpoint.

In conclusion, the perceived conflict between monotheism and evolution is often due to misunderstandings about divine will, knowledge, and design. When properly understood, these two concepts can coexist. They each address different aspects of knowledge, with science focusing on the physical world and religion on the spiritual.

Question 10

The Quran offers a reconciliation between fate and free will, suggesting that while God's will guides, humans possess the freedom to make choices, challenging the view that belief in God negates free will.

Accepted Answer

The long-standing philosophical debate of determinism versus free will has been a topic of intense discussion. The argument is that if everything is predetermined by fate or divine will, then humans can't truly possess free will. This was a view held by French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, who asserted that belief in God negates the concept of free will. He famously stated, "Because I believe in freedom, I cannot be a believer in God."

However, a different perspective is offered in the Quran, which suggests that it's possible to believe in both fate and free will. The Quran talks about God creating humans with the ability to make choices, to discern between right and wrong. It contains verses that state that while God provides guidance towards the right path, humans have the freedom to be ungrateful. Other verses indicate that those who aspire for the hereafter and put in the effort as believers will be rewarded, while those who seek immediate pleasures will face dire consequences. This implies that humans have the free will to shape their destiny based on their choices.

The Quran, therefore, offers a philosophical reconciliation between fate and free will. Misunderstandings often arise from the strict adherence to the concept of cause and effect, a view held by both theologians and materialists. However, accepting God's will doesn't necessarily negate free will, just as denying God doesn't automatically guarantee it. The issue is indeed complex, but it's important to note that belief in God doesn't inherently mean a lack of human freedom.

Question 11

In Europe, the association of religious belief with political despotism led people to equate faith with a lack of freedom, fueling a shift towards materialism.

Accepted Answer

Historically, some social and political concepts were not fully developed, causing individuals to turn towards materialism. In certain political ideologies, the leaders were not answerable to their citizens, but only to a divine entity. This gave rise to despotism, suppressing the rights of the people. Some individuals believed that faith in a higher power equated to accepting tyranny and a lack of personal freedom. In Europe, political despotism and the restriction of individual liberties were linked with the belief in a divine entity. The common perception was that to gain freedom, one must deny the existence of a divine entity. Consequently, they prioritized freedom over faith.

On the other hand, Islamic social philosophy presents a different perspective. It suggests that faith in a divine entity necessitates that leaders are answerable to their citizens and must respect their rights. Imam Ali, a significant figure in Islam, stated that leaders have responsibilities as well as rights. According to him, faith in a divine entity alone makes leaders accountable and ensures the rights of the people. Unlike the situation in Europe, religious concepts in Islam advocated for freedom. In Europe, religion was seen as a barrier to freedom, leading to a growing resentment towards religion. This resulted in people embracing materialism and rejecting the concept of a divine entity. There were also other factors that led to a shift towards materialism among both Muslims and Christians, which were related to ineffective methods of religious preaching.

Question 12

Religion should guide, not suppress, basic human instincts like procreation and the pursuit of knowledge and wealth, to maintain a balance between spiritual and material life.

Accepted Answer

Human instincts such as procreation, the pursuit of knowledge, and the quest for wealth are inherent to human nature and cannot be completely suppressed. However, they require guidance to prevent misuse or overindulgence.

For instance, when religion attempts to suppress these basic desires, it often results in unhappiness and a shift towards materialism. This is not the intended outcome. The belief is that God does not expect humans to choose between happiness in this life or the next.

Take the example of forbidden substances like alcohol. These are believed to bring misery in both the present life and the afterlife. On the other hand, fulfilling religious duties is seen as a source of joy in both lives, as explained in the Quran.

Unfortunately, some religious leaders propagate unrealistic doctrines that paint religion as being opposed to happiness. This misrepresentation can lead people to reject religion and gravitate towards materialism.

The ideal situation is for religion to create a balance between spiritual and material life. The basic instincts that are part of human nature should not be suppressed, but rather guided. The belief is that God wants humans to find joy in both the present life and the afterlife through the practice of religion.

Question 13

A healthy spiritual environment is crucial for nurturing the soul and preventing a slide into materialism, as indulgence in worldly pleasures can numb spiritual senses and lead to societal decline.

Accepted Answer

One's beliefs and actions are significantly shaped by their spiritual environment. If this environment doesn't foster spirituality and transcendence, it can lead individuals towards a more materialistic lifestyle. This is where moral and doctrinal materialism come into play, feeding off each other in a harmful cycle.

For instance, when people immerse themselves in worldly pleasures, their spiritual senses become numb. On the flip side, when spirituality is lost, there are no longer any restraints on indulging in materialistic desires. This can lead to a societal decline, as people become more consumed by their desires and lose touch with their humanity.

This is why many faith traditions stress the importance of avoiding sins and lusts in order to maintain spiritual purity. The ultimate aim is to nurture the soul and align with divine purposes, rather than getting sidetracked by fleeting pleasures.

Think of it this way: just as a plant thrives in a healthy environment, so does the soul in an elevated spiritual environment. Conversely, a debased environment can lead to the degradation of the soul. Therefore, it's crucial for individuals and communities to be vigilant in fostering the right spiritual atmosphere, in order to keep transcendent values alive and thriving.

Question 14

Materialism's popularity stems from its perceived link with progress, revolution, and anti-colonialism, overshadowing the historical revolutionary contributions of religious figures.

Accepted Answer

Materialism has grown in popularity over time due to both historical and contemporary factors. In earlier times, materialism was linked with culture, intellectual pursuits, and scientific advancements, making it an attractive philosophy. In the present day, it has become synonymous with revolutionary thinking and anti-colonial sentiments, further enhancing its appeal.

A common misconception among young people is that revolutions are spearheaded solely by materialists, while religious leaders remain passive. This leads them to view materialism as a heroic stance and religious principles as inactive. However, a look back at history reveals that prophets and their disciples have always been at the forefront of revolutions, fighting against oppression.

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, contains numerous verses lauding those who strive for justice. However, modern Muslim theologians have distanced themselves from these teachings, leaving a void that materialists have been quick to fill. This retreat can be attributed to several factors, including Muslim leaders choosing personal comfort over duty, misinterpretations of religious concepts like taqqiya that seemingly justify inaction, and a failure to uphold the Prophet's revolutionary legacy.

In Europe, the Church propagated irrational interpretations of God, which were rejected by intellectuals. The Church's support for despotism also painted a picture of God as a supporter of oppressive regimes, making materialism appear as a champion of justice. As a result, some reformers renounced their belief in God to free themselves from the Church's influence and to gain followers.

Materialism's rise to prominence has been aided by its false association with socialism and revolution. In truth, the leaders of materialism rose to power independently. This trend is also evident in the Muslim world, where materialists have claimed the mantle of anti-colonialism due to the retreat of Muslim leaders. However, Muslims who are aware of their history and teachings are beginning to reclaim their rightful place as champions of revolution.

Question 15

Accepted Answer

Final Summary:

"Motive for Materialism" by Murtadha Motahari is a comprehensive exploration of the historical, philosophical, and societal factors that have contributed to the rise of materialism. The author argues that materialism, which denies the existence of non-material entities and restricts existence to the material world, is a trend that has been influenced by various factors including intellectual, social, and political concepts. He emphasizes the importance of presenting divine thought in a correct, verified, reasonable, and scientific method, and argues that the survival of humanity depends on belief in God.

To implement the learnings from the book into one's life, one could:

1. Study and understand the philosophical underpinnings of materialism and its implications on society.
2. Reflect on the role of divine thought in one's life and how it influences one's worldview.
3. Engage in discussions and debates about materialism and divine thought to broaden one's perspective.
4. Critically evaluate the influence of social and political concepts on one's belief system.
5. Explore the historical origins of materialism and its evolution over time.
6. Strive to present and understand divine thought in a scientific and reasonable manner.
7. Consider the implications of materialism on humanity's survival and civilization.
8. Reflect on the role of religious authorities and their influence on societal trends towards materialism.
9. Understand the connection between materialism and socialism, and how they influence each other.
10. Continually question and re-evaluate one's beliefs and understandings in light of new information and perspectives.

Motives for Materialism - Book Summary (2024)