‘Google Doodle’ marks 888th birthday of Muslim philosopher Averroes

Google is getting philosophical with its latest ‘Doodle’, which today marks the 888th birthday of the Muslim thinker Averroes.

The search giant regularly transforms its logo to celebrate famous people, historical events or notable dates, and on Monday chose a tribute to the philosopher Averroes, who was also known as Ibn Rushd.

Averroes, who was born in present-day Spain and died in Marrakesh, is described as a “polymath” given his broad interests in Islamic philosophy, theology, music, mathematics.

Born in 1126, he inspired a branch of philosophy called Averroism, and much of his work is said to have integrated Islamic traditions with ancient Greek thought.

“We celebrated Ibn Rushd’s 888th anniversary with a doodle today as he is well-known for his works in philosophy, science and astronomy,” a Google spokesperson told Al Arabiya News.

“Doodles also make search on Google more fun and enjoyable for our users worldwide,” the spokesperson added.

Google Doodles have centered on topics as diverse as Saudi Arabia’s National Day, late Algerian singer Warda Al Jazairia, and what was interpreted as a criticism of a Russian law restricting gay-rights activities.