A Criticism of the Secular Approach in the Thoughts of the Contemporary Thinker Mohammad Mojtehed Shabestari

Secularization is a process which leads to the weakening of the standing and function of religion in the realms of religion, individual and society. Although the origin of secularization is the West, it may impact all religions and religious societies including Iran. The attempts of some Muslim thinkers and reformists to eliminate the challenges of Islam and to enhance its adaptability with man’s new requirements by resorting to modern lifestyle have resulted in the weakening of the standing and function of religion in society. In this context, Doctor Mojtehed Shabestari’s views represent a new interpretation of Islam and modernity. In this paper, an attempt has been made to probe into the features of secularization and its consequences in his views.