Document Type : Research Article / Original Article
Abstract
The discussion of motive forces in history can be considered as one of the most important issues of philosophy of history. A review of this issue from the perspective of contemporary Shiite scholars is an effective way to clarify religious approach to the issue. Accordingly, the present paper attempts to explore Allame Tabatabai’s views regarding motive force in history. He maintains that history shifts from unity to plurality and from plurality to unity. People trying to "employ" each other and connect to each other to establish society. "Employment" is accompanied by personal profit seeking and this, in turn, brings about anarchy. The only way to solve the problem of anarchy is the intervention of a divine factor called "prophecy". Godly prophets with divine law unite societies and guide people towards eternal salvation. Accordingly, the prophets of God can be the main factor to take into account the driving force in history.
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