Islam and Secularism
A guided reading of Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas on religion, secularization, ethics and the worldview of Islam.
About this course
This course engages with al-Attas’ Islam and Secularism, tracing its account of the intellectual encounter between Islam and the modern secular West. It examines key concepts such as dīn, justice, ethics, morality, knowledge and adab, as well as the author’s critique of secularization.
Lecture programme
Course schedule
Main course dates run from 15 November to 27 December 2026. The course document additionally lists a third bonus lecture for 28 December 2026. Session times are to be announced.
Central themes
The book explores the historical roots of secularization, the concepts of dīn, ethics and adab, and al-Attas’ proposal for the de-westernization of knowledge. The additional sessions explore al-Attas’ broader metaphysical worldview, Fazl Haqq Khayrabadi, and comparative perspectives on secularism.
Registration process
Complete the form and submit your payment proof there. An acknowledgment is sent after submission. Payment is checked manually, and the private WhatsApp community invitation is emailed only after verification. Zoom links are shared separately before each lecture.
The course PDF includes an additional bonus session scheduled for 28 December, after the stated main-course end date of 27 December. Please check course announcements for the latest details.