Abu Hamid Gazali as a Philosopher, Theologian, Social Thinker. To the Question of the Ratio of Philosophy and Practice in Terms of Influence on Society

The article examines the originality of the intellectual heritage of the Muslim philosopher, theologian and cultural figure Abu Hamid Ghazali (11-12 centuries AD). The relevance of the study of the Ghazali heritage is due to increased, starting from the end of the 19th century, interest in the writings of Abu Hamid Ghazali, as evidenced by the works in German, French, Arabic and Russian. The problem of the correlation of philosophy and theology in the teachings of the Muslim thinker is considered. The critical attitude of the philosopher on the diversity of both the intellectual heritage of Islam and Western philosophy was noted. A characteristic feature of Ghazali’s worldview is the desire to connect science, logic, epistemology and religious doctrines, performing synthesis based on the dominance of Islam in its original (revived in its origins) form. Philosophy, science and logic are interpreted as a productive tool in strengthening Islam and Muslim society. His philosophical and religious system is founded on Sufi theory, which also forms part of his teaching methodology. Another salient feature of Ghazali’s corpus is his educational and pedagogical endeavours, which are oriented towards the realisation of a significant objective from the vantage point of public good: the integration of Muslim society on the principles of an Islam that has been renewed, in addition to the efforts directed towards combating antagonistic religious movements that create division within society. In his intellectual activity, Ghazali develops a number of important ideas that justify the dialogue between philosophy, science, theology and social practice.