A scientist in a non-scientific environment: Abu Reyhan al-Biruni against the stereotypes and prejudices of everyday consciousness

Abstract

This article discusses the problem of communication between a scientist professionally en­gaged in cognitive activity and the non-scientific society surrounding him. On the example of the life and works of Abu Reyhan al-Biruni, it is shown that, on the one hand, the scientist is aware of his responsibility as a member of society, which should bring tangible, practical benefit to people tangible, practical benefits. But, on the other hand, the scientist also re­mains a subject oriented towards higher epistemological and social values, which are not re­ducible to the demands of the day. Sober practicality, naïve empiricism, and exotericism are singled out as stereotypes of everyday consciousness. They are opposed to the values that ensure the freedom and sovereignty of scientific inquiry – respectively, the principle of the intrinsic value of knowledge, rational theorizing, and epistemological esotericism.