Are the Theories of Evolution, Multiverse, and the Inexistence of Universe Starting Point, the Product of Modern Science? Causality and Chance in Modern and Ancient Science

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

In the last two centuries, a better understanding of nature and significant advances in science and technology have led to the emergence of new and exciting ideas and approaches. Almost all of them are known as the product of contemporary science. Ideas such as evolution in biology, the ideas about the beginning of the universe (models based on the existence of a starting point for the universe or otherwise), and the idea of parallel worlds in physics. Although these ideas have flourished in the context of modern science, they contain important philosophical backgrounds and as a result, have some important philosophical consequences.  In this article, a historical review of the writings and works of Ibn Sina shows that each of these ideas has been presented similarly since ancient times in natural philosophy. Therefore, their position is more philosophical than scientific. Using these theories without considering their metaphysical and non-experimental assumptions will lead to misconceptions. Many of the challenges between science and religion stem from not considering the limits of empirical science and a lack of attention to the metaphysical assumptions of scientific theories. In this article, we will explain Ibn Sina's reasons for or against these theories as one of the first people to explicitly examine the scientific and philosophical aspects of these theories. Ibn Sina's scientific accuracy and admirable scientific spirit can be enlightening for contemporary scholars.

Keywords

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Journal of Philosophical Investigations
Volume 15, Issue 37 - Serial Number 37
Special Issue: Interaction Between Sciences and Philosophy (In Persian)
2021
Pages 70-99

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