PSY 130: Psychology of Islamic Ethics is an immersive 14-week course designed to explore the intersection of Islamic ethics and psychology. This course delves deep into how Islamic ethical principles influence human behavior, decision-making processes, and psychological well-being. Over the span of the program, students will investigate the psychological underpinnings of moral actions and ethical choices as guided by Islamic teachings. The course aims to provide an understanding of the role that faith, spirituality, and ethical norms play in shaping personality, character, and mental health.
The curriculum integrates insights from Islamic scriptures, ethical philosophy, and psychological theory to examine the development of moral reasoning, the concept of the nafs (self), and the struggle between one’s lower desires and higher spiritual aspirations. Students will engage with topics such as the psychology of repentance, forgiveness, compassion, and altruism within Islam, alongside contemporary psychological perspectives on these themes.
Overall Objectives for this Course:
By the end of this course, students will:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of Islamic ethical principles and their psychological dimensions.
- Explore the impact of Islamic ethics on individual behavior and societal norms.
- Understand the psychological processes involved in moral decision-making from an Islamic perspective.
- Analyze the role of conscience (taqwa) and self-reflection in ethical development.
- Examine the psychological benefits of adhering to Islamic ethical standards.
- Investigate the relationship between Islamic ethics, mental health, and psychological resilience.
- Apply Islamic ethical teachings to contemporary ethical dilemmas and personal challenges.
- Explore the therapeutic aspects of Islamic ethical practices in psychological counseling and therapy.
- Develop strategies for fostering ethical behavior and spiritual growth based on Islamic teachings.
- Critically evaluate the contributions of Islamic scholars to the field of moral psychology.
Curriculum
- 15 Sections
- 0 Lessons
- 14 Weeks
- ReadingA highly recommended book that covers both the psychological aspects and the Islamic ethical framework is “Reclaim Your Heart” by Yasmin Mogahed. This book delves into personal spiritual development, emotional healing, and the struggle against the self from an Islamic perspective. It’s an excellent resource for understanding how Islamic teachings can guide one’s journey towards psychological well-being, resilience, and ethical living.0
- Week 1: Introduction to Islamic Ethics and Psychology.0
- Week 2: The Concept of the Nafs and its Role in Psychological Health.0
- Week 3: Moral Reasoning and Decision Making in Islam.0
- Week 4: The Psychology of Repentance and Forgiveness.0
- Week 5: Compassion and Altruism: Islamic Perspectives and Psychological Insights.0
- Week 6: The Impact of Taqwa (God-consciousness) on Mental Well-being.0
- Week 7: Ethical Challenges in the Modern World: An Islamic View.0
- Week 8: Spiritual Aspirations vs. Lower Desires: A Psychological Battle.0
- Week 9: Psychological Resilience through Islamic Ethical Practices.0
- Week 10: Islamic Ethics in Relationships: Family, Community, and Society.0
- Week 11: The Therapeutic Value of Islamic Ethical Practices.0
- Week 12: Ethical Leadership and Governance: Lessons from the Seerah.0
- Week 13: Case Studies: Islamic Ethics in Counseling and Therapy.0
- Week 14: Integrating Islamic Ethics into Personal Development Plans.0
Instructor
