Cognitive Errors of the Misbelievers in the Holy Qur’an: An Exegetical–Comparative Analysis

Document Type : Academicm and Research

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Jurisprudence and Law, Shahrekord University

2 Faculty member, University of Qom

Abstract

Cognitive errors and logical fallacies are among the key factors leading to flawed behavior and distorted value judgments. Exploring their mechanisms in unbelief clarifies pathways toward more rational and ethical decision-making. The Qur’an, in numerous verses, addresses the reactions, arguments, and psychological as well as epistemic resistances of disbelievers, polytheists, and hypocrites against divine revelation. This study, through a Qur’anic hermeneutical approach and with reference to cognitive psychology and informal logic, identifies and categorizes such errors. Using an analytic–inferential method and qualitative content analysis of Qur’anic verses, supported by classical exegetical sources, the research highlights major fallacies, including denial, reductionism, self-centered analogies, appeals to tradition and wealth, insult, distortion, selective quotation, false correlations, misinterpretation, and emotional appeals. The findings not only deepen the understanding of fallacious reasoning in Qur’anic discourse but also open avenues for interdisciplinary research—particularly linking Qur’anic studies, cognitive sciences, and critical thinking—while offering systematic strategies to confront distortive discourses at both individual and societal levels.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Send comment about this article
CAPTCHA Image
Comparative Interpretation Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 October 2025

Files

Share

How to cite

Statistics