Philosophy Tea - Ibn Khaldun

‘Government is an institution which prevents injustice other than such as it commits itself.’
Ibn Khaldun, al-Muqaddima (Prolegomena).
Ibn Khaldun was an early path-breaking Arab historian and sociologist. He lived 1332-1406 (732-808 according to the Muslim calendar) and his major work An Introduction to World History (al-Muqaddima or Prolegomena) from the late 1300s has a number of systematic ideas on civilizations, the rise and fall of dynasties and the uses of power; as well as unique historical records. He was born in Tunisia into an Arab family with an Andalusian background and Berber roots. He lived a dramatic life in the Arab world of the time from Morocco to Mecca, both as a scholar and as a policy maker. For instance, he negotiated with the Mongol conqueror Timur Lenk/Tamerlane during the siege of Damascus in 1401. In episode Peter Wallensteen and Daniel Ogden discuss Ibn Khaldun’s thinking on peace, war, power and change, as well as his relevance today.

The episode was recorded and edited at Reginateatern, which also served as the host venue for the event on 12 December 2017.

Producer: Paul Kessel

The Philosophy Tea talks were held regularly at the Regina Theatre in Uppsala from 2014 to 2021. During these well attended events – where tea, scones and jam were served – Professor Peter Wallensteen and Guest Lecturer Daniel Ogden, both of Uppsala University, discussed thinkers who have contributed to our understanding of peace and justice. In all, 40 sessions were held, of which 31 are recorded. The session were also supported by Uppsala University as part of its outreach activities.