CVSP 202 Final, Fall 1996

Civilization Sequence Program Final Examination January 1997 c.S. 202 Prof. I. Najjar Two Hours Choose one of the following two essay questions: ¥ 1. According to Ibn Khaldun, the political scientist cannot help dealing with larger issues related to the society as a whole and to history in general. (a) Discuss in what ways this view is supported by his discussion of the rise and fall of dynasties. (b) To what degree would Machiavelli support this view in his book the Prince? And what are the most essential factors necessary for the rise and the survival of the prince? (c) Would Dante agree with Ibn Khaldun’s perspective and advise the temporal ruler to share his power with some other authority? 2. To Luther, religion plays an essential part in man’s life and salvation. (a) How did he arrive at this position and what are the basic issues that man has to worry about in assessing what is important for salvation? How did he compare his position with that of the Catholic Church? (b) While Ibn Khaldun did not speak about man’s- salvation, he would agree with Luther on the importance of religion to man. Discuss Ibn Khaldun’s view of religion with regard to the Arabs. (c) What is the place of religion in Ibn Tufayl’s thinking? Answer adequately. Good Luck