Mulla Sadras’s View on Shabah (Phantom)

The aim of present study is to find   an answer to the following question: “What is the relationship between science and Shabah (Phantom) theory from Mulla Sadra’s point of view?” Mulla Sadra analysis about Phantom theory is summarized based on his lexical network and special existence approach. The following 4 stages shows his analysis about the theory: 1) Detection of contents of Phantom theory, denegation of the match between external existence and mental image, acceptance of existence effect of image and introduction of image as a cause that helps knowledge acquisition with his own special existence view,  2) useful expression that shows Phantom develops knowledge for qualities and what are inexistent,  3) introducing criticisms for Phantom theory and examination of criticisms, and 4) presenting a mental existence theory that develops science for qualities and what are inexistent and it also presents scientific reasons for other existents. We show, although strongly criticizing the Phantom theory, Mulla Sadra uses this theory for developing his mental existence theory. Although we do not insist on this conclusion, we believe this view will make the puzzle of relationship between science and Phantom theory enter a new stage.