Occidentalist Thought in Contemporary Intellectual Discourse: Towards an Objective Vision in Exploring the Other

Abstract

This article presents a critical study of Occidentalist thought, a new intellectual trend that has manifested in the Arab and Muslim world within interdisciplinary fields of khowledge. Various competing approaches have been used among this trend, aiming to comprehensively understand the Other, including its civilization, structure, and history. The study attempts to determine the origin of the differences in these approaches, as well as the context and the way in which they have developed. Moreover, it attempts to examine the scientific basis of their claims in the same manner that the Occident has done with other cultures and civilizations. This, for the purpose of comparison and broadening perspective and understanding of the Other, and to arrive at objective thought; thought which contributes to the Occidental movement such that it serves to inform the fiqh of engaging with the Other and enriches the discourse in accordance with a strong basis and sound knowledge.