Is it permissible to read Charles Darwin's book "On the Origin of Species" with the intention of understanding it and refuting it scientifically, or is that forbidden?
Reading books that are intended to be refuted and demolished is commendable for those who are qualified for it and are safe from temptation and doubt due to their knowledge and faith. It is not permissible for the unqualified. The Permanent Committee for Issuing Fatwas stated: "It is not permissible for a Muslim to study philosophy, man-made laws, and the like, if he is not able to distinguish their truth from their falsehood, for fear of temptation and deviation from the straight path. It is permissible for one who can digest them and is able to understand them after studying the Quran and , to distinguish their bad from their good, and to establish the truth and refute falsehood, as long as it does not distract him from what is more obligatory in Islamic law."
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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