The rise of Islam, based on both the Qur'an and Muhammad strongly altered the power balances and perceptions of origin of power in the Mediterranean region. Early Islamic philosophy emphasized an inexorable link between science and religion, and the process of ijtihad to find truth—in effect all philosophy was "political" as it had real implications for governance. This view was challenged by the "rationalist" Mutazilite philosophers, who held a more Hellenic view, reason above revelation, and as such are known to modern scholars as the first speculative theologians of Islam; they were supported by a secular aristocracy who sought freedom of action independent of the Caliphate. By the late ancient period, however, the "traditionalist" Asharite view of Islam had in general triumphed. According to the Asharites, reason must be subordinate to the Quran and the Sunna. COUNT 4
QSN1 What strongly altered the power balances and perceptions of origin of power in the Mediterranean region? ANS1 The rise of Islam QSN2 What emphasized an inexorable link between science and religion? ANS2 Early Islamic philosophy QSN3 Who challenged the early Islamic philosophy's views? ANS3 the "rationalist" Mutazilite philosophers QSN4 What type of views did the "rationalist" Mutaziite philosophers hold? ANS4 Hellenic view