Muharrem Hafiz

Muharrem Hafiz is a Professor in the Department of History of Philosophy at the Faculty of Theology, Istanbul University, where he has been serving since 2013. He holds a doctorate from Marmara University (2012) and has advanced through academic ranks from Assistant to Associate and finally to full Professor in 2023. He also holds managerial roles, including Director of the Institute since 2024 and member of the Institute Board.

His educational background includes:

• Doctorate (2006–2012): Marmara University, Department of Philosophy and Religious Sciences
• Postgraduate (2002–2005): Yeditepe University, Department of Philosophy
• Undergraduate (1996–2001): Marmara University, Faculty of Theology, Department of Islamic Philosophy and Theology

Hafiz's research focuses on the intersection of philosophy, religion, and art. His primary areas of interest include the philosophy of religion, aesthetics, political philosophy, metaphysics, and the philosophy of music. He explores sacred art traditions across cultures, especially in Islamic and Hindu contexts, and engages deeply with classical thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, al-Farabi, Kant, and Wittgenstein. His work often bridges Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, particularly in the context of Islamic thought and Balkan religious culture.

His recent scholarly output reflects a consistent engagement with themes of sacredness, art, language, and metaphysical inquiry. Articles published between 2024 and 2007 demonstrate a trajectory from classical philosophy to contemporary philosophical aesthetics, with a strong emphasis on comparative and intercultural perspectives. His publications frequently appear in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes, and he has authored books on music in Islamic culture, sacred art, and philosophical interpretations of key historical figures.

Hafiz has supervised several graduate students on topics ranging from Tarkovsky’s films to Bergson’s philosophy of life and Descartes’ cogito. He has also contributed to funded research projects, including those on teacher training and Balkan religious music. He is an active member of the Turkish Philosophical Society and the Philosophy of Religion Association, and he regularly participates in national and international academic events as a speaker and reviewer.

Notably, Hafiz is also a practicing artist—serving as a kanun performer and composer—and has contributed to cultural albums, including one published by the Turkish Ministry of Culture. This dual identity enriches his academic work, particularly in the philosophy of music and sacred aesthetics.