The Theory of State in al-Fārābī’s Thought in Light of the Concept of Civil Science

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. student in Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Shiraz, Shiraz, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Shiraz, Shiraz, Iran

Abstract

Abstract
This research examines Al-Farabi's theory of government in light of the concept of "civil science." Al-Farabi considers civil science to be a knowledge that is responsible for explaining the principles, goals, and regulations of human society, with the ultimate aim being the attainment of true happiness. In this framework, the government has an instrumental role that guides society from theoretical principles to practical goals. Al-Farabi's methodology in civil science is based on the "arc of ascent," emphasizing the voluntary and conscious actions of humans, and is realized through social cooperation. From his perspective, the realization of the virtuous city requires two fundamental pillars: cooperation and leadership; its continuity depends on the establishment of a virtuous government. Al-Farabi, emphasizing the connection between reason and revelation, sees the government as responsible for four main areas: guidance and protection of public values, execution, legislation, and judgment. He regards the legitimacy of the ruler as a divine matter, contingent upon popular acceptance, and based on this, considers only the ruler who possesses all theoretical, intellectual, moral, and practical virtues as worthy of absolute power. The results of the research indicate that Al-Farabi's theory of government is not only based on the foundations of Islamic philosophy and Greek heritage but also provides a coherent model for understanding the relationship between ethics, politics, and religion in the Islamic political system, with a focus on happiness and social cooperation.

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References

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Public Law Knowledge Quarterly
Volume 14, Issue 3 - Serial Number 49
September 2025
Pages 53-76

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History

  • Receive Date: 29 August 2023
  • Revise Date: 21 April 2024
  • Accept Date: 02 September 2025

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