The Mu'tazila is an Islamic theological school that emerged in the 8th century. It is known for its emphasis on reason and rationality in understanding faith. The Mu'tazilites believed that human reason could discern moral truths and that individuals are responsible for their actions, which aligns with their belief in free will. Central to Mu'tazila thought is the idea of divine justice, asserting that God would not punish anyone without clear guidance. They also rejected anthropomorphism in describing God, advocating for a more abstract understanding of the divine. Their influence waned by the 10th century but left a lasting impact on Islamic philosophy.