The Effect of non Epistemological Factors in Belief Formation from the Perspective of the QurÞÁn with an Emphasis upon Self-aggrandizement

Knowledge and cognition—in particular beliefs and convictions—are fundamental in the determining of man’s identity and the formation of both the individual self and society. As such, they have been given due attention from ancient times and have been the subject of much research and study from varying perspectives. Without doubt, beliefs, just like other phenomena, not only have influence but are also influenced by both Epistemological and non- Epistemological factors. The noble QurÞÁn has spoken of this mutual influencing and has considered all of its dimensions. By expounding the processes and means by which this interaction takes place, it goes on to prescribe the normative precepts that facilitate human perfection and felicity. After some introductory points, the article at hand enumerates those factors that, from the perspective of the QurÞÁn, have an influence on belief, focussing in particular on “arrogance” or “self-aggrandizement.” The paramount importance of such discussions lies in the fact that one of the ways of Islamizing the sciences calls for the systematic and comprehensive theorization of normative beliefs according to the QurÞÁn and the traditions of the Prophet and his Progeny (upon them be peace).