Islamic influence on the scientific method | Science

The scientific method is generally presented as a European invention of the 16th or 17th century (1) – a historically incomplete shorthand that neglects the contributions of Islamic scholars. When the scientific method is presented as a Western possession, non-Western trainees are more likely to be seen as guests rather than inheritors of a shared tradition. The devaluation of non-Westerners could contribute to policies that quietly legitimize excessive control. For example, U.S. travel bans on Arab and other Muslim-majority countries have disrupted scientific mobility and participation (2), and in Canada, a 2024 cap has reduced approved study permits for international students by approximately 35% compared to 2023 (3, 4). Science educators and communicators should strive to increase understanding, both within and outside the scientific community, that science has a multicultural history and that science today must foster a sense of belonging for those from non-Western backgrounds.