A Reflection on the Value-Neutrality of Social Science in the Tradition of Liberalism (with Emphasis on the Qur'anic Criterion)

Document Type : The Quarterly Jornal

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Cultural Studies, Research Institute of Culture and Social Studies, Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies, Qom, Iran

Abstract

The relationship between knowledge and values is a general and concerning topic in discussions about science. Scientific approaches influenced by the liberal current claim that moral judgments not only lack the capacity to regulate social behavior but also lead to misunderstandings in the pursuit of knowledge and truth. Therefore, it is argued that the analysis of observations must be value-laden and full of recommendations. However, this approach is refuted in Islamic literature, wherein knowledge and value are seen as integral components of perfection within the system of knowledge. A life devoid of values is regarded as cold and meaningless. The issue of the connection between descriptive and normative statements, which has ontological roots and relates to human worldview and understanding of existence and the human being, and the critique of a one-dimensional view of humanity and the world, are among the main objectives of this article. The paper seeks to eliminate this dichotomy and challenge the claim of incongruity within social sciences—a claim stemming from the liberal view of science—by offering a religious criterion through a descriptive-analytical method in response to such reflections.

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Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Islam and Social Studies
Volume 13, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
ExecutiveExpert
August 2025
Pages 92-120

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 September 2023
  • Revise Date: 13 July 2024
  • Accept Date: 02 August 2025

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