On the Common-Link Theory

The Common-Link Theory, invented by Joseph Schacht and widely accepted in modern scholarship, argues that Muslim authorities knowingly and purposefully placed traditions in circulation. G. H. A. Juynboll, Michael Cook and others embraced this theory. §The first chapter elucidates the formation of Schacht\'s Common-Link Theory, demonstrating how it is related to his other theories. The second chapter examines the responses to Schacht\'s theory. The third chapter employs a critical technique in examining Schachtians\' evidence. Two other critical approaches are demonstrated in the fourth chapter. The first offers a workable alternative to Schacht\'s faulty hypothesis. The second demonstrates the flaws of Schacht\'s methodology. The last chapter elucidates how Schacht\'s other theories would subsequently collapse.§The findings of this book challenges Schacht\'s founding theory, and also open the door for scholars to question other important theories held by Schacht and his followers with regard to Islamic legal history. Thus, this book is an essential source for scholars and readers interested in Islamic Law and Islamic History in general.