The Role of Theoretical Foundations in Preventing Intellectual Deviations with Emphasis on the Theories of Ayatollah Misbah Yazdi

Abstract

Intellectual deviation constitutes a major challenge for contemporary societies, particularly within religious and cultural contexts, due to its profound impact on identity formation, belief systems, and social behavior. This phenomenon extends beyond mere diversity of opinion or simple cognitive error and is deeply rooted in the destabilization of theoretical foundations and the erosion of criteria for distinguishing truth from falsehood. The present study aims to examine the role of theoretical foundations in preventing intellectual deviations, with particular emphasis on the intellectual framework of Ayatollah Misbah Yazdi. Employing a narrative review methodology and a descriptive analytical approach, the study systematically analyzes Misbah Yazdi’s views in the domains of epistemology, ontology, anthropology, and axiology. The findings indicate that his emphasis on guided rationalism, critique of epistemological relativism and secularism, theocentric understanding of existence, recognition of human fitrah and free will, and insistence on stable moral values together form a coherent and effective framework for intellectual prevention. Moreover, the concepts of religious authority and doctrinal education emerge as complementary mechanisms that reinforce intellectual integrity within society. The study concludes that this integrated theoretical model not only demonstrates strong internal coherence but also possesses significant applicability to contemporary social conditions, offering a strategic foundation for cultural and educational policymaking aimed at sustainable prevention of intellectual deviations.