May 21, 2012

Gülen Movement as a Change Agent

Halit Kara

The Gülen Movement, although it initially sprouted as a faith-based movement in Turkey in the late 1970s by a few Turkish followers of Fethullah Gülen, seemingly portraying a new formation as a result of a slightly different interpretation of Nursi (Said Nursi) tradition, a historical and ontological analysis of the movement indicates that Gülen movement is a social movement that does not have religious, ethnic, cultural and political agenda. Seemingly a faith-based movement but beyond any faith, cultural movement but hosting members of other cultures in its body, Gülen movement today demonstrates a harmonious global network of volunteers, teachers, intellectuals, students, businessmen/women of any ethnic, religious, race, and socio-economic backgrounds who are inspired by Gülen’s social philosophy based on dialogue and peaceful coexistence[i].

Gülen Movement: Connection with Niagara Foundation

Caroline Pahl *

Whenever I mention the Gülen movement, I get reactions like, “That’s controversial,” or “That’s a touchy subject.” So I want to explore it: I will be exploring the reason behind its controversy, its role in the democratization of Turkey, and its connection with the educational system of more than 140 countries.