An Analysis of the Epistemic Validity of the Theoretical Jurisprudential Approach in Light of shahid al-Sadr’s Theory of Induction

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Ph.D. Graduate in Jurisprudence and the Foundations of Islamic Law, Department of Jurisprudence and the Foundations of Islamic Law, Faculty of Theology, Islamic Studies and Guidance, Imam Sadiq University, Tehran, Iran (Corresponding Author).
2 Professor, Department of Jurisprudence and the Foundations of Islamic Law, Faculty of Theology, Islamic Studies and Guidance, Imam Sadiq University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
1. Introduction and Objective
One of the proposed ways to establish the validity and probative authority of the jurisprudential-theoretical approach is Shahid Sadr’s theory of induction. In fact, by developing the theory of induction, he sought to resolve human epistemological challenges, including the manner of knowing necessary and universal propositions. The connection and application of this epistemological theory to the jurisprudential-theoretical approach, which is situated within the framework of the conventional science of jurisprudence, is highly challenging and recalls the longstanding conflation of conventional and ontological sciences. This article aims to analyze and evaluate this application.
2. Methods and Materials
Using a descriptive-analytical method, this article analyzes and evaluates the above-mentioned application.
3. Research Findings
The findings indicate that neither of the two stages of subjective generation and essential generation in induction can be applied to the jurisprudential-theoretical approach, for reasons such as the insufficient abundance of particulars and superstructural rulings involved in uncovering a doctrinal theory, the absence of a continuous and sensory correlation between superstructural rulings and a doctrinal theory, and the distinctive feature of jurisprudence as a science based on bringing together disparate elements and distinguishing combined ones.
4. Discussion and Conclusion
Therefore, establishing the probative authority of the jurisprudential-theoretical approach through Shahid Sadr’s theory of induction is not valid.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 31 August 2026

  • Receive Date 08 March 2025
  • Accept Date 13 July 2025