A Critical Review of the Book The Question of Terminology in Islamic Sciences

Abstract

This critical review offers a methodological assessment of the scholarly work of Algerian researcher Ahmed Dheeb, titled “The Question of Terminology in Islamic Sciences: Hypotheses of Formation and Possibilities of Development.” The study successfully identifies a core methodological issue in contemporary approaches to the study of terminology within Islamic sciences. Dheeb endeavors to explore both classical and modern treatments of Islamic terminology with the aim of formulating a theoretical framework capable of addressing present-day methodological challenges. His research engages with three contemporary intellectual projects: (1) the Terminology Institute initiative, (2) the methodological orientation of Hadith scholars, and (3) the perspective of the philosophy of science. This review evaluates Dheeb’s capacity to respond to the central research question, critiques the limitations of the approaches he examines, and assesses his contribution to advancing terminological studies within Islamic scholarship. The review concludes that while Dheeb’s effort in compiling and analyzing relevant literature—spanning both historical and modern sources—is noteworthy, his resolution of the underlying methodological problem remains incomplete.