The Early Science in the Islamic World reading group meets monthly to discuss primary sources and scholarship related to various relevant themes. Readings are chosen based on participants’ own research activities in order to illuminate methodological and theoretical challenges and issues and based on the group’s ongoing discussions. Topics are varied and explore different aspects of the Islamic sciences broadly, across regions and time periods. In particular the reading group has a focus on material culture and practices, as well as exploring new approaches in the field.

In this meeting, we will read the following papers:

"Arabic Theories of Astral Influences: Abu Ma'shar al-Bakhi" by Liana Saif 
"The Role of the Astrologer in Medieval Islamic Society" by George Saliba