Explanation and Justification of the Theory of Fitrah from Mortaza Motahhari’s Perspective based on the Inference to the Best Explanation Model

Fitrah (human nature) is a vital principle in the Islamic worldview. Its numerous impacts in various philosophical discussions, including the philosophy of religion, ethics, history, epistemology and the problem of knowledge, educational philosophy, legal philosophy, and political philosophy, indicate its significance and importance. Mortaza Motahari referred to fitrah as the "mother principle" in Islamic culture and teachings, and in his various works, he examined the effects and implications of fitrah in humans, considering it a continuation of the general essential movement of existence. However, beyond citing verses and hadiths, he rarely focused on the rational proof of the principle of fitrah, more so providing a general methodology (which, according to the author, can be based on the model of inference to the best explanation). This research, using a descriptive-analytical method and by gathering and analyzing information, first examines the essence of fitrah and human innate qualities, then aims to establish the existence of fitrah in humans. Different justifications for the existence of human tendencies in humans are analyzed to identify the correct explanation. Subsequently, some of the effects and outcomes of fitrah are explored, including the argument of fitrah in theism, the impact of fitrah on epistemology and the problem of knowledge, ethics, the philosophy of history, educational philosophy, and sociology.