IJIE
Vol. 9 No. 3 (2026): International Journal on Integrated Education (IJIE)

The Dialectic of Religion and Science in Islam: A Comparative Study of Ian G. Barbour and Seyyed Hossein Nasr

Puspita Handayani (Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo, Indonesia)
Syafi’ur Rohman (Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo, Indonesia)
Syafiq A. Mughni (Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Aug 2026

Abstract

The relationship between religion and science in contemporary Islam cannot be understood merely as conflict or separation, but rather as a complex integrative relationship. This study comparatively analyzes the thoughts of Ian G. Barbour and Seyyed Hossein Nasr regarding the epistemological construction of the religion-science relationship. The method employed is a literature review with a descriptive-analytical and critical-comparative approach through primary and secondary source exploration. The results show that Barbour developed a typology of religion-science relationships (conflict, independence, dialogue, integration) that is analytical and pluralistic, whereas Nasr offers a metaphysical critique of modern science through the concept of sacred science based on tawhid (monotheism). Both scholars reject absolute conflict and recognize the inherent limitations of modern science, yet they differ in their epistemological foundations and integrative orientations. This study concludes that the integration of religion and science requires a transformation from a dualistic to an integrative paradigm that encompasses both methodological and metaphysical dimensions, rendering it highly relevant for the development of Islamic scholarship and contemporary education oriented toward values, meaning, and spirituality.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJIE

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

International Journal on Integrated Education (IJIE) 2620-3502 is a peer-reviewed, open-access scholarly journal, publishing high-quality manuscripts in multidisciplinary research areas. IJIE accepts papers in the forms of original research articles, review articles, book reviews, case reports, and ...