Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of Abu Nasr al-Farabi’s political and legal views in light of the affirmation of the ideals of universal humanism. In this context, the principles and norms governing various types of political communities are examined, revealing how they contribute to the development of guidelines for managing people and achieving happiness through the activities of political associations. Particular attention is given to the issues of human socialization, the formation of society, and the factors of social stability. The key categories of al-Farabi’s philosophy - freedom, justice, virtue, happiness, and reason are analyzed as the moral and humanistic foundation of his doctrine of the perfect society and the virtuous city. It is shown that the thinker viewed the state as an instrument for achieving universal happiness, and the ruler as the bearer of active intellect, wisdom, and morality.

A special section is devoted to al-Farabi’s views on religion, which he understood as a form of enlightenment allowing for the harmonious coexistence of diverse beliefs within a single humanistic ideal. Al-Farabi’s philosophy, which organically synthesized ancient and Islamic intellectual traditions, affirms the equality of all people in their right to happiness, spiritual perfection, and free choice. The thinker’s ideas on reason, justice, and moral governance remain relevant today, retaining their significance in the context of contemporary humanistic and socio-philosophical inquiries.

Keywords: al-Farabi, politics, religion, society, virtuous city, humanism, perfection, happiness.