The Muslim world and the development of science and technology: phase in history

Abstract

Science and technology are inseparable. When scientific knowledge is translated to actions and products that enhance adaptability to one’s immediate environment, technology is then realized. Technology, the world over is the backbone of development. It is tantamount to progress, be it old, new, modern or scientific. it is generally a way of doing things that enhances better livelihood, sustainability and prosperity. Development as a result of technological advancement could be gradual, spontaneous, sporadic or drastic. The intention of this research work is to trace the historical circumstance of the Muslim world in the aspect of science and technology. The paper is also out to consider the concept of the Muslim world as against the Arab nations, the Islamic world, the Middle east and the North-east Africa. Such clarification of concepts will bring to the fore, the idea of progress and its contributions to the global development, taken into cognizance cultural imperialism, Intellectual capital theft assumptions and insinuations. This aspect is of a particular interest to the writer due to the experience of imperialism, imposition and full colonization which were claimed to be factors in the neglect of African indigenous knowledge and technology, such imposition witnessed by sub Saharan Africa was not so prolonged and fully experienced by the Muslim world, hence, there may be a reason to determine, in the course of this research work, the period the Muslim world deviated from the path of technology, considering the current turbulence in the Arab world and finally the global relevance of such early technology. The paper is theoretical, relying on the secondary sources. The paper concludes with recommendations towards further development of the identified intellectual property of the Muslim world.