June 2, 2011
Reconciling Democracy and Islam
Muzaffar K Awan, M.D.
‘Allamah Iqbal’s (b. 1877 d. 1938) and Fethullah Gülen’s (b.1938) ideas about democracy in the Islamic context are very similar. ‘Allamah Iqbal had indeed made a proposal of spiritual democracy to the ummah in his “Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam” in his 6th lecture in 1930. We find that many Islamic scholars of today have accepted the idea of democracy and Islam being compatible. Iqbal indeed did not like the idea of importing the Western democratic system and transplanting it as such in the Islamic world because of its extreme secular stance. He still suggested in his writings that there was no alternative to democracy in the Muslim World. Iqbal observed that if the foundations of democracy were to rest upon spiritual and moral values, it would be the best political system for the world. He wrote in the “The New Era” July 28th, 1917 issue: “Democracy was born in Europe from economic renaissance that took place in most of its societies. But democracy in the Islamic context is not to be developed from the idea of economic advancement alone; it is also a spiritual principle that comes from the fact that every individual is a source of power whose potentialities are to be developed through virtue and character.”
June 1, 2011
Religion and Politics in Turkey: To Talk or Not to Talk
Oliver Johnson*
In 1933, after the Great Depression, Franklin Delano Roosevelt set on enacting a broad, far-reaching and eventually hugely successful set of economic policies that came to be known as the New Deal. The New Deal entailed, among others, measures to create jobs for the less advantaged and vastly improve the social security network. Monsignor John Ryan recognized in the New Deal the potential to help the vast majority of the American Catholics, most of which fresh immigrants from impoverished regions of Europe, to escape poverty and improve their social and economic standing.
In 1933, after the Great Depression, Franklin Delano Roosevelt set on enacting a broad, far-reaching and eventually hugely successful set of economic policies that came to be known as the New Deal. The New Deal entailed, among others, measures to create jobs for the less advantaged and vastly improve the social security network. Monsignor John Ryan recognized in the New Deal the potential to help the vast majority of the American Catholics, most of which fresh immigrants from impoverished regions of Europe, to escape poverty and improve their social and economic standing.
May 31, 2011
Turkish team for International Science Olympics chosen
Today's Zaman
Turkey's team for the International Science Olympics has been finalized and will consist of 23 students, the highest number of whom are from the Ankara Private Samanyolu College.
Turkey's team for the International Science Olympics has been finalized and will consist of 23 students, the highest number of whom are from the Ankara Private Samanyolu College.
Poll: Public believes MHP sex tape quake work of ‘external forces'
Today's Zaman
The release of sex tapes involving some members of the opposition Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) has been coordinated by dark or external forces that are trying to reshape the administration of the opposition party ahead of or after the June 12 general elections, according to the findings of a newly released opinion poll.
The poll was conducted by the MetroPOLL Strategic and Social Research Center.
The release of sex tapes involving some members of the opposition Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) has been coordinated by dark or external forces that are trying to reshape the administration of the opposition party ahead of or after the June 12 general elections, according to the findings of a newly released opinion poll.
The poll was conducted by the MetroPOLL Strategic and Social Research Center.
May 30, 2011
Zambian President opens Turkish school, commends quality of education
Times of Zambia
President Rupiah Banda has advised the Ministry of Education to pay serious attention to privately-run schools that are low on quality, efficiency, purpose and focus.
Mr Banda said yesterday that when parents pay considerable sums of money they should be able to reap significant harvests of good character formation in their children.
Speaking when he officially opened Horizon Primary and High School in Lusaka's Kabulonga area, Mr Banda said for some schools, poor character among children was still a challenge.
Mr Banda said yesterday that when parents pay considerable sums of money they should be able to reap significant harvests of good character formation in their children.
Speaking when he officially opened Horizon Primary and High School in Lusaka's Kabulonga area, Mr Banda said for some schools, poor character among children was still a challenge.
May 29, 2011
What is Islam's Gulen movement?
Edward Stourton
Turkey's Gulen movement, which promotes service to the common good, may have grown into the world's biggest Muslim network. Is it the modern face of Islam, or are there more sinister undercurrents?
From Kenya to Kazakhstan, a new Islamic network is attracting millions of followers - and billions of dollars.
Inspired by a little-known Turkish imam, the Gulen movement is linked to more than 1,000 schools in 130 countries as well as think tanks, newspapers, TV and radio stations, universities - and even a bank.
Turkey's Gulen movement, which promotes service to the common good, may have grown into the world's biggest Muslim network. Is it the modern face of Islam, or are there more sinister undercurrents?
From Kenya to Kazakhstan, a new Islamic network is attracting millions of followers - and billions of dollars.
Inspired by a little-known Turkish imam, the Gulen movement is linked to more than 1,000 schools in 130 countries as well as think tanks, newspapers, TV and radio stations, universities - and even a bank.
May 28, 2011
Lack of grounds for legal action against Fethullah Gülen
Today's Zaman
The specially authorized Ankara Deputy Prosecutor's Office announced on Friday that it had found a lack of grounds for legal action taken against renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen in an investigation launched against him -- which were based on allegations of a controversial book written by now-arrested Police Chief Hanefi Avcı.
In his book released last year “Haliç'te Yaşayan Simonlar” (Simons in the Golden Horn) Avcı argues that the Ergenekon trial is a conspiracy run by the government to silence its critics but acknowledges he has no proof to back up his claims. He also asserts judges and prosecutors investigating military plots to topple the government are linked to Gülen, who he accuses of secretly planning to overthrow the institutions of the state, including the police.
The specially authorized Ankara Deputy Prosecutor's Office announced on Friday that it had found a lack of grounds for legal action taken against renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen in an investigation launched against him -- which were based on allegations of a controversial book written by now-arrested Police Chief Hanefi Avcı.
In his book released last year “Haliç'te Yaşayan Simonlar” (Simons in the Golden Horn) Avcı argues that the Ergenekon trial is a conspiracy run by the government to silence its critics but acknowledges he has no proof to back up his claims. He also asserts judges and prosecutors investigating military plots to topple the government are linked to Gülen, who he accuses of secretly planning to overthrow the institutions of the state, including the police.
Ankara prosecutor rules out charges against Fethullah Gülen
Hurriyet Daily News
Ankara’s chief prosecutor with special authority has dropped an investigation into allegations leveled against religious leader Fethullah Gülen by arrested ex-police chief Hanefi Avcı, reports said Friday.
There is no reason to prosecute Gülen and another individual known only by the initials O.H.Ö., Ankara’s special public prosecutor concluded Friday following an investigation.
Ankara’s chief prosecutor with special authority has dropped an investigation into allegations leveled against religious leader Fethullah Gülen by arrested ex-police chief Hanefi Avcı, reports said Friday.
There is no reason to prosecute Gülen and another individual known only by the initials O.H.Ö., Ankara’s special public prosecutor concluded Friday following an investigation.
May 27, 2011
Unethical to accuse Fethullah Gülen over MHP crisis, says CHP deputy
Today's Zaman
It is wrong to accuse Muslim scholar Fethullah Gülen or anybody else over a recent scandal in the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), in which 10 senior party members were force to resign when anonymous individuals posted online sex-videos of three MHP members and threatened to post more if certain other party members didn't resign, CHP deputy Mustafa Özyürek has said.
It is wrong to accuse Muslim scholar Fethullah Gülen or anybody else over a recent scandal in the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), in which 10 senior party members were force to resign when anonymous individuals posted online sex-videos of three MHP members and threatened to post more if certain other party members didn't resign, CHP deputy Mustafa Özyürek has said.
Being forced to submit to the military
Rasim Ozan Kütahyalı *
Let me start by highlighting a fundamental fact: The Turkish military guardianship regime cannot possibly change without the full support and leadership of religious people.
In fact, liberals, left-wingers, Kurds and non-Muslims in this country have been aware of this fact for a while. This is not new information for them, but due to the influence of old habits, they provide sterile and polished statements in their political analyses.
Let me start by highlighting a fundamental fact: The Turkish military guardianship regime cannot possibly change without the full support and leadership of religious people.
In fact, liberals, left-wingers, Kurds and non-Muslims in this country have been aware of this fact for a while. This is not new information for them, but due to the influence of old habits, they provide sterile and polished statements in their political analyses.
May 26, 2011
A Kurdish TV station
İhsan Yılmaz
Last week, I visited a local Kurdish-language TV station that is based in the southeastern Turkish city of Gaziantep, Dünya TV.
Last week, I visited a local Kurdish-language TV station that is based in the southeastern Turkish city of Gaziantep, Dünya TV.
May 25, 2011
MHP and tapes: Who does this and why?
Hüseyin Gülerce
We are all curious about the answers to two questions concerning sex tapes that were made public, after which 10 senior Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) members were forced to resign: Who did this? And why? For a proper answer, we have to consider the only available precedent. The first precedent and example of a sex tape scandal that had political consequences was the resignation of Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal from the party chairmanship.
We are all curious about the answers to two questions concerning sex tapes that were made public, after which 10 senior Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) members were forced to resign: Who did this? And why? For a proper answer, we have to consider the only available precedent. The first precedent and example of a sex tape scandal that had political consequences was the resignation of Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal from the party chairmanship.
May 24, 2011
Worldly Asceticism in Islamic Casting: Fethullah Gulen's Inspired Piety and Activism
M. Elisabeth Özdalga
The road democracy is long and conflict-ridden. Although crises are inevitable in this process, nations differ with and find paths out of political deadlock. Since modern democracy is built on urban mass society, the problems of democracy often are closely connected to those of integrating an increasingly complex and diversified society. An essential part of the democratic process is the growth of a public sphere. Recently in Turkey, a Muslim country with a long tradition of democratic rule, a question that has become especially focused: Who rules over the public sphere?
The road democracy is long and conflict-ridden. Although crises are inevitable in this process, nations differ with and find paths out of political deadlock. Since modern democracy is built on urban mass society, the problems of democracy often are closely connected to those of integrating an increasingly complex and diversified society. An essential part of the democratic process is the growth of a public sphere. Recently in Turkey, a Muslim country with a long tradition of democratic rule, a question that has become especially focused: Who rules over the public sphere?
May 23, 2011
Fethullah Gülen’s Philosophy of Education in Practice
Ruth Woodhall
In this study I first examine Fethullah Gülen’s own writings and statements about education and show how Gülen’s educational philosophy is reflected in practice in the movement's activities. I argue that measuring the achievements of the movement indicates that the application of Gülen’s philosophy is the key to the success of the movement. This study depends to a large extent on my own experience of working within the movement in a number of different locations and roles over a period of almost ten years.
May 22, 2011
"The Cry of the Nightingale": Fethullah Gulen – A Modern-Day Rumi?
Catherine B. Eustis
As one of the best selling poets in North America, Rumi’s message of love and tolerance, representing Islam as a religion of peace and brotherhood, is beginning to be heard today by spiritual seekers as a positive model for interfaith dialogue in this troubled world. His religion was Islam, yet he was an advocate of unlimited religious tolerance, and accepted Muslims, Jews, and Christians with the same loving eyes and heart. In return he was respected and revered by people of all faiths. Interestingly enough Gulen’s words describing Rumi as inspiring duality of one foot in his own faith tradition while the other roams freely to the faiths of others can also be applied to Gulen himself.[132] Though many today have read about or heard about Rumi, few feel the pain of mankind, or have a heart burning with love of God, or seek an era of love, tolerance and peace as much as Fethullah Gulen. Few understand and exemplify the depth of Rumi’s message as Gulen does.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
May 21, 2011
Which Diyarbakır?
İhsan Yılmaz
I am in Diyarbakır with a group of academics. The first thing that must be said about the city is that it is not like its image in the media.
I am in Diyarbakır with a group of academics. The first thing that must be said about the city is that it is not like its image in the media.
May 20, 2011
Hizmetophobia: A by-product of the Turkish Muslim Spring
Ali H. Aslan
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recently issued its latest annual report with an embarrassingly long Turkey section. In addition to the problems of minority non-Muslims and Alevis, the commission has also alluded to those of majority Sunni Muslims in Turkey. But a useful term that would describe the main reason for their suffering was missing: Islamophobia.
Islamophobia has been in the veins of the post-Ottoman Turkish republican regime since it was established in 1923. Many founders of the Republic of Turkey were secularist-positivists who held deep reservations about the institution of religion, especially organized Islam. Hence, they employed immense pressure (open and covert) to cleanse religion from public and even private life in this majority Muslim nation. Centuries-old Islamic missions were banned. At one point, teaching the Muslim holy book the Qur’an was illegal. Religious lifestyles often resulted in job and promotion denial, or even expulsion, in some key government institutions, such as the military.
Islamophobia has been in the veins of the post-Ottoman Turkish republican regime since it was established in 1923. Many founders of the Republic of Turkey were secularist-positivists who held deep reservations about the institution of religion, especially organized Islam. Hence, they employed immense pressure (open and covert) to cleanse religion from public and even private life in this majority Muslim nation. Centuries-old Islamic missions were banned. At one point, teaching the Muslim holy book the Qur’an was illegal. Religious lifestyles often resulted in job and promotion denial, or even expulsion, in some key government institutions, such as the military.
May 19, 2011
Anti-government, Fethullah Gülen plan in action
Markar Esayan
It is now evident that decisions were made to ignite hatred, to spill blood and intensify tension as election day approaches. The recent assaults and casualties should not be viewed as some sort of coincidence.
It is not understandable or reasonable that military operations are carried out and that the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) assaults keep going on, while PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan previously declared his contact with state figures fruitful and that the cease-fire will remain in effect until June 15. In his column in Today’s Zaman and Taraf where he analyzed the operation claiming the lives of 12 PKK militants in Şırnak’s Uludere district and the PKK assault targeting Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Kastamonu, Emre Uslu gave some valuable tips.
It is now evident that decisions were made to ignite hatred, to spill blood and intensify tension as election day approaches. The recent assaults and casualties should not be viewed as some sort of coincidence.
It is not understandable or reasonable that military operations are carried out and that the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) assaults keep going on, while PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan previously declared his contact with state figures fruitful and that the cease-fire will remain in effect until June 15. In his column in Today’s Zaman and Taraf where he analyzed the operation claiming the lives of 12 PKK militants in Şırnak’s Uludere district and the PKK assault targeting Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Kastamonu, Emre Uslu gave some valuable tips.
May 18, 2011
Turkish Scholar Fethullah Gulen Honored with "Peacebuilding Award"
Ebru News
Hundreds gathered in New York City this week - for the 30th anniversary of the East/West Insitute. The Global organization works to create dialogue between different cultures. And this year -- the group honored Turkish scholar Fethullah Gulen with a prestigious award.
Hundreds gathered in New York City this week - for the 30th anniversary of the East/West Insitute. The Global organization works to create dialogue between different cultures. And this year -- the group honored Turkish scholar Fethullah Gulen with a prestigious award.
CHP deputy candidate voices support for Ergenekon trial
Hüseyin Keleş
Journalist Aydın Ayaydın, a candidate for deputy from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has declared support for the ongoing trial of Ergenekon, a clandestine criminal network accused of working to overthrow the government, saying criminals should be called to account regardless of their titles or positions.
“There are gangs and mafias within Ergenekon. I find the [Ergenekon] trial right. I see many people [on trial] whom I believe are guilty. … No matter what their titles or positions are, a man should be called to account and punished if he committed a crime,” the candidate told Today’s Zaman.
Journalist Aydın Ayaydın, a candidate for deputy from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has declared support for the ongoing trial of Ergenekon, a clandestine criminal network accused of working to overthrow the government, saying criminals should be called to account regardless of their titles or positions.
“There are gangs and mafias within Ergenekon. I find the [Ergenekon] trial right. I see many people [on trial] whom I believe are guilty. … No matter what their titles or positions are, a man should be called to account and punished if he committed a crime,” the candidate told Today’s Zaman.
Writer Aytav says ‘Ali should throw the ball to Hagop' before it's too late
Yonca Poyraz Doğan
A writer who has questioned how being “the other” is and what it means in Turkey in his recent book has told Today's Zaman for Monday Talk that the society has been victimized by the republican state ideology that idealized a “Muslim Hanefi secular Turk,” but that this doesn't have to be that way forever.
“Hrant Dink had formulated that very well: Ali should throw the ball to Hagop. It's time; indeed, the time is past. We should say enough is enough. Ali has been playing ball only with other Ali's; but when he starts to play with Hagop, there will be a better game because there will be a better team. We will solve the problem when we realize this,” said Erkam Tufan Aytav, who wrote the book “Being Other in Turkey” (“Türkiye'de Öteki Olmak”) based on his interviews with eight people who are members of Turkey's different communities that have been singled out as “others” for a long time.
A writer who has questioned how being “the other” is and what it means in Turkey in his recent book has told Today's Zaman for Monday Talk that the society has been victimized by the republican state ideology that idealized a “Muslim Hanefi secular Turk,” but that this doesn't have to be that way forever.
“Hrant Dink had formulated that very well: Ali should throw the ball to Hagop. It's time; indeed, the time is past. We should say enough is enough. Ali has been playing ball only with other Ali's; but when he starts to play with Hagop, there will be a better game because there will be a better team. We will solve the problem when we realize this,” said Erkam Tufan Aytav, who wrote the book “Being Other in Turkey” (“Türkiye'de Öteki Olmak”) based on his interviews with eight people who are members of Turkey's different communities that have been singled out as “others” for a long time.
May 17, 2011
Amazing readiness to believe lies
Kerim Balcı
I have been observing an amazing readiness among Western intellectuals -- be they journalists or academics -- to believe in smear campaigns against the religious people of Turkey.
The religious-democratic sources inform them about the coup plans of fundamentalist secularists with all kinds of evidence and yet they prefer to believe the secularist sources. The secularists lie to them about the alleged secret agendas and intentions of religious people without any evidence at all, and yet they spare a place in their columns, articles, speeches and documentaries for those allegations.
I have been observing an amazing readiness among Western intellectuals -- be they journalists or academics -- to believe in smear campaigns against the religious people of Turkey.
The religious-democratic sources inform them about the coup plans of fundamentalist secularists with all kinds of evidence and yet they prefer to believe the secularist sources. The secularists lie to them about the alleged secret agendas and intentions of religious people without any evidence at all, and yet they spare a place in their columns, articles, speeches and documentaries for those allegations.
May 16, 2011
Will the MHP stay above election threshold?
Mümtazer Türköne
Recent public polls show that the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) will receive 9 to 12 percent of the vote in the upcoming elections. Experts are concerned about the party's votes. The analysts I talked to say they are experiencing difficulty in gauging electoral support for the party. The MHP could be the major surprise of this election as it may fall below the election threshold. Based on the current outlook, I think the party will not be able to surpass the threshold.
Recent public polls show that the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) will receive 9 to 12 percent of the vote in the upcoming elections. Experts are concerned about the party's votes. The analysts I talked to say they are experiencing difficulty in gauging electoral support for the party. The MHP could be the major surprise of this election as it may fall below the election threshold. Based on the current outlook, I think the party will not be able to surpass the threshold.
The Kemalist sympathizers of bin Laden
Mustafa Akyol
“One Laden dies, a thousand Ladens are born,” reads the cover story of the current issue of the magazine “Türk Solu,” (Turkish Left.) A smiling photo of bin Laden, the al-Qaeda leader who just got killed by American soldiers, covers the front page of the magazine. And its logo presents a sober photo of the all-secular Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, while defining the publication as “An Atatürkist, nationalist, leftist paper.”
I know, it sounds weird. But it is actually not that weird when one gets to know the “anti-imperialist” strain within Kemalism (aka “Atatürkism”), and the political, rather than religious nature of al-Qaeda.
“One Laden dies, a thousand Ladens are born,” reads the cover story of the current issue of the magazine “Türk Solu,” (Turkish Left.) A smiling photo of bin Laden, the al-Qaeda leader who just got killed by American soldiers, covers the front page of the magazine. And its logo presents a sober photo of the all-secular Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, while defining the publication as “An Atatürkist, nationalist, leftist paper.”
I know, it sounds weird. But it is actually not that weird when one gets to know the “anti-imperialist” strain within Kemalism (aka “Atatürkism”), and the political, rather than religious nature of al-Qaeda.
May 15, 2011
Misrepresentation of Fethullah Gülen in English-language media
Mehmet Kalyoncu
For an average American and European reader, the name Fethullah Gülen may not necessarily be a familiar one. That Gülen is a scholar who has inspired millions of volunteers across the world to engage in educational and intercultural initiatives, that he publically denounced Osama bin Laden for the shame that the latter brought upon Islam, and that he advocated Turkey’s full membership in the European Union at time when his counterparts opposed it by simply viewing the EU as a Christian club with Zionist touches, are not something that the average reader would know, either.
Recently the English-language media have been increasingly covering Gülen and the worldwide civil society initiatives he has inspired. However, the language in general and the way certain politically significant words can be used in some of this media coverage are somewhat problematic in the sense that they fail to present the full picture about Gülen, if not deliberately create doubts and prejudices about him.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
Recently the English-language media have been increasingly covering Gülen and the worldwide civil society initiatives he has inspired. However, the language in general and the way certain politically significant words can be used in some of this media coverage are somewhat problematic in the sense that they fail to present the full picture about Gülen, if not deliberately create doubts and prejudices about him.
Controversial remarks to prove costly for MHP
Fatma Dişli Zıbak
Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli, whose controversial statements regarding the video scandals shaking his party occupied column inches throughout last week, continued to be a subject of debate over the weekend. Bahçeli’s unfortunate statements in which he pointed to Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen, who has pioneered extensive educational activities around the world, as the mastermind behind video scandals involving several MHP members will prove costly for the party ahead of the June 12 general elections, columnists say.
Bugün’s Ahmet Taşgetiren interprets Bahçeli’s attack on Gülen as an effort to convince the MHP voter base that the party is under attack from outside forces, but he thinks this is the kind of effort which is doomed to fail because MHP supporters are careful and aware enough to see and appreciate the services Gülen has provided to serve the interests of the country.
Bugün’s Ahmet Taşgetiren interprets Bahçeli’s attack on Gülen as an effort to convince the MHP voter base that the party is under attack from outside forces, but he thinks this is the kind of effort which is doomed to fail because MHP supporters are careful and aware enough to see and appreciate the services Gülen has provided to serve the interests of the country.
Kemalist fabrications
İhsan Yılmaz
I have been arguing here in this column that there has been a psychological war campaign against both the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the Gülen movement at home and abroad.
I have been arguing here in this column that there has been a psychological war campaign against both the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the Gülen movement at home and abroad.
May 14, 2011
Has all else failed for the MHP?
Fulya Vatansever
The plot surrounding the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) video scandal thickened when MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the scandal where illicit recordings showing senior MHP party members in intimate and compromising circumstances were leaked on the Internet.
With “beyond the ocean” being considered code in Turkish political literature referring to Fethullah Gülen and considering the fact that Bahçeli had also targeted the Gülen community prior to the disclosure of these videos, many observers read these statements as part of the MHP leader’s broader sustained attack on the community and are questioning the ultimate purpose of this enterprise.
The plot surrounding the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) video scandal thickened when MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the scandal where illicit recordings showing senior MHP party members in intimate and compromising circumstances were leaked on the Internet.
Erdoğan: Bahceli's Fethullah Gülen remarks tantamount to betrayal
Mustafa Ünal
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has criticized Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli's controversial statements about Islamic scholar and intellectual Fethullah Gülen, describing his remarks as being “tantamount to betrayal [of the MHP's roots].”
“To me, the MHP's attack on Gülen is tantamount to betrayal. It is a very ugly thing. Does Gülen not have any business other than dealing with Bahçeli? First, Gülen's position does not allow such a thing. The things he occupies himself with do not allow such a thing. What he did is very ugly and shameful. I condemn [Bahçeli's remarks] to the extent of betrayal,” Erdoğan said.
“To me, the MHP's attack on Gülen is tantamount to betrayal. It is a very ugly thing. Does Gülen not have any business other than dealing with Bahçeli? First, Gülen's position does not allow such a thing. The things he occupies himself with do not allow such a thing. What he did is very ugly and shameful. I condemn [Bahçeli's remarks] to the extent of betrayal,” Erdoğan said.
Bahçeli continues to draw criticism for remarks on Gülen
Hüseyin Keleş
Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli continues to draw criticism for his offensive statements about Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen whom he pointed to as a mastermind behind scandalous videos that involve senior MHP members.
Republican People’s Party (CHP) Deputy Chairman Erdoğan Toprak said it was very wrong for Bahçeli to associate Gülen with the video scandals involving several MHP members. “It is very wrong to involve individuals who have nothing to do with these incidents, I mean the person who is referred as ‘beyond the [Atlantic] ocean’ in this incident. A politician needs to be reasonable. Why are you involving someone else in your trouble? Gülen is a figure who has made contributions to the education of this country in the international arena. So, I find his being pulled into such an issue is very wrong,” Toprak told Today’s Zaman.
Republican People’s Party (CHP) Deputy Chairman Erdoğan Toprak said it was very wrong for Bahçeli to associate Gülen with the video scandals involving several MHP members. “It is very wrong to involve individuals who have nothing to do with these incidents, I mean the person who is referred as ‘beyond the [Atlantic] ocean’ in this incident. A politician needs to be reasonable. Why are you involving someone else in your trouble? Gülen is a figure who has made contributions to the education of this country in the international arena. So, I find his being pulled into such an issue is very wrong,” Toprak told Today’s Zaman.
May 13, 2011
What audacity, Mr. Bahçeli
Bülent Keneş
Clearly the extremely tense election atmosphere has taken a toll on Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli, who is the ringleader of a staff that has waged a war on the values of nationalist conservative constituents, who rely on ülkücülük [idealism], the ideology that defines MHP both psychological and politically.
Otherwise, he would not be talking about or targeting a volunteer-based civil society movement that derives its strength and dynamics from the values of the public and that is not a party to politics. Bahçeli is ignoring the sensitivities of his main constituents and by waging a war on the sacred values of his real constituent base he faces the risk of not being able to pass the election threshold. As a result Bahçeli is suffering from psychosis and is confused about where to attack.
Clearly the extremely tense election atmosphere has taken a toll on Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli, who is the ringleader of a staff that has waged a war on the values of nationalist conservative constituents, who rely on ülkücülük [idealism], the ideology that defines MHP both psychological and politically.
Otherwise, he would not be talking about or targeting a volunteer-based civil society movement that derives its strength and dynamics from the values of the public and that is not a party to politics. Bahçeli is ignoring the sensitivities of his main constituents and by waging a war on the sacred values of his real constituent base he faces the risk of not being able to pass the election threshold. As a result Bahçeli is suffering from psychosis and is confused about where to attack.
Fears of poll failure, political ineptitude drive MHP’s Bahçeli to attack Fethullah Gülen
Fatma Dişli Zıbak
Fears about the Nationalist's Movement Party's (MHP) failure to pass the election threshold in the June 12 general elections and party leader Devlet Bahçeli's political ineptitude to correctly read the developments in the country prompt him to aggressively attack the Gülen community and point to it as the mastermind of the scandals shaking the MHP, observers have said.
In the wake of the video clips that have surfaced involving four senior members of the MHP having affairs with women and insulting right-wing voters, Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the video clip scandals.
In the wake of the video clips that have surfaced involving four senior members of the MHP having affairs with women and insulting right-wing voters, Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the video clip scandals.
Why are they attacking Fethullah Gulen?
Gültekin Avcı
Why would anyone attack a man who made Turkish a world language and one of solidarity, who has proven himself on the world stage and who has been the reason why children in places whose names we have not even heard of are singing the folk songs of this land?
Why would anyone attack a man who made Turkish a world language and one of solidarity, who has proven himself on the world stage and who has been the reason why children in places whose names we have not even heard of are singing the folk songs of this land?
Health minister stands behind Fethullah Gülen against MHP leader's accusations
Today's Zaman
Health Minister Recep Akdağ on Thursday strongly criticized Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli, who controversially pointed to well-respected Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen as the mastermind of scandals currently shaking the MHP, saying Turkey owes a debt of gratitude to Gülen for his service to the country.
In the wake of video clips that have surfaced involving four senior members of the MHP having affairs with women and insulting right-wing voters, Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the video clip scandals.
In the wake of video clips that have surfaced involving four senior members of the MHP having affairs with women and insulting right-wing voters, Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the video clip scandals.
CHP council member backs Fethullah Gülen against smear campaigns
Hüseyin Keleş / Ali Aslan Kılıç
Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) Party Council (PM) member and theologian Muhammed Çakmak said those aiming to defame people without providing any concrete evidence will go down in history as the “slanderers of the century,” in remarks that came as clear support for Islamic scholar and intellectual Fethullah Gülen, who is a target of defamation efforts.
In the wake of the video clips that have surfaced involving four senior members of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) having affairs with women and insulting right-wing voters, MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the video clip scandals.
In the wake of the video clips that have surfaced involving four senior members of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) having affairs with women and insulting right-wing voters, MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli accused those “beyond the [Atlantic] ocean” of having a role in the emergence of the video clip scandals.
Why is the MHP escalating its war on Fethullah Gülen?
Emre Uslu
Following the leak of videotapes of senior-level Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) officials, party leader Devlet Bahçeli told his constituents that tape-based politics was being coordinated by someone from “beyond the ocean.”
Since “beyond the ocean” is known in Turkish political literature to be a reference to Fethullah Gülen, Gülen responded to the MHP. Bahçeli had targeted the Gülen community before the disclosure of the videotapes as well. After the arrest of some journalists, Bahçeli stated that “the community should suspend its activities” in an appeal to Gülen. Even though Bahçeli was forced to backpedal upon public reactions it shows that the MHP leader had been targeting the Gülen community even before the videotapes emerged.
Following the leak of videotapes of senior-level Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) officials, party leader Devlet Bahçeli told his constituents that tape-based politics was being coordinated by someone from “beyond the ocean.”
May 12, 2011
EastWest Institute honors Fethullah Gülen with 2011 EWI Peace Building Award
Sezai Kalaycı
The EastWest Institute (EWI) honored well-respected Turkish intellectual and scholar Fethullah Gülen with its 2011 EWI Peace Building Award at an awards dinner held in New York on Tuesday for his contribution to world peace.
The EastWest Institute (EWI) honored well-respected Turkish intellectual and scholar Fethullah Gülen with its 2011 EWI Peace Building Award at an awards dinner held in New York on Tuesday for his contribution to world peace.
May 11, 2011
Fethullah Gülen’s ordeal
Bülent Korucu
Fethullah Gülen has never entertained any idea other than serving his beloved nation and humanity. So though many claims have been voiced to the contrary, none could be substantiated.
Not only did the slander prove false, but it was also unable to have any noticeable effect on his reputation.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
Not only did the slander prove false, but it was also unable to have any noticeable effect on his reputation.
May 10, 2011
Fethullah Gulen: A smear campaign under way against the people who promote Turkish culture worldwide
Today's Zaman
Turkish intellectual and scholar Fethullah Gülen has said a smear campaign – with accompanying propaganda -- is under way against people who exert the utmost efforts to introduce Turkish culture to the rest of the world, calling for common sense in reaction to the makers of the campaign and the propaganda.
“We can resort to self defense in the face of ruthless smear campaigns, accusations and attacks or make explanations or refutations against them. If there are people who insist on wrongdoing, then we can sue them for damages. These are our legal rights. But we will never act in a violent manner as they do. We will not show them our fists as they do to us. Even if they threaten to slap us, we will not respond to them with slaps,” Gülen said on Monday in his latest speech broadcast on website Herkul.org.
Turkish intellectual and scholar Fethullah Gülen has said a smear campaign – with accompanying propaganda -- is under way against people who exert the utmost efforts to introduce Turkish culture to the rest of the world, calling for common sense in reaction to the makers of the campaign and the propaganda.
“We can resort to self defense in the face of ruthless smear campaigns, accusations and attacks or make explanations or refutations against them. If there are people who insist on wrongdoing, then we can sue them for damages. These are our legal rights. But we will never act in a violent manner as they do. We will not show them our fists as they do to us. Even if they threaten to slap us, we will not respond to them with slaps,” Gülen said on Monday in his latest speech broadcast on website Herkul.org.
May 9, 2011
Time to counter global lies
Ekrem Dumanlı
At one time in this country, the media would write lies, distort stories and mislead the public and no one would be able to say anything against them. Coups were staged, memorandums were released, groups of people were discredited and individuals were defamed with those lies. For several decades, the public was misguided because there wasn't an alternative news source.
It's impossible for lies to go on forever. And they didn't. Fortunately, Turkey was able to end the practice of false journalism. A casually released piece of information no longer becomes the subject of serious analysis 10 minutes later. When lies are told, they become exposed instantly. It is for this reason that fictional stories about reactionaryism are no longer written. Those who fabricate stories know very well that other media organizations will quickly access the people, places and witnesses mentioned in the false story and expose the true side of the story.
At one time in this country, the media would write lies, distort stories and mislead the public and no one would be able to say anything against them. Coups were staged, memorandums were released, groups of people were discredited and individuals were defamed with those lies. For several decades, the public was misguided because there wasn't an alternative news source.
It's impossible for lies to go on forever. And they didn't. Fortunately, Turkey was able to end the practice of false journalism. A casually released piece of information no longer becomes the subject of serious analysis 10 minutes later. When lies are told, they become exposed instantly. It is for this reason that fictional stories about reactionaryism are no longer written. Those who fabricate stories know very well that other media organizations will quickly access the people, places and witnesses mentioned in the false story and expose the true side of the story.
May 8, 2011
Jill Carroll Interviewed on Ideas of Fethullah Gulen
Dr. B. Jill Carroll is the Executive Director of the Boniuk Center for the Study and Advancement of Religious Tolerance at Rice University, Texas. She is also Adjunct Associate Professor in Religious Studies at Rice University. Her research interests are issues in comparative religion, religion and world politics, and natural theology. She co-hosts with Kym King a regular radio program called "Peaceful Coexistence" on Pacifica 90.1FM KPFT in Houston.
Dr. Carroll earned her Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University in 1994 with a specialty in philosophy of religion. She is the author of numerous articles and four books. Her recent book, A Dialogue of Civilizations: Gulen’s Islamic Ideals and Humanistic Discourse (*) was a Publishers Weekly bestseller in religion, having been in a “Top 10” category on Amazon in May 2007. She is a frequent guest on radio and television programs, and has been interviewed by The New York Times, PBS, MSNBC, and Good Morning America.
Below, you may watch an interview conducted by Ebru TV's Footnote Talk Show regarding Dr. Carroll's book, ideas of Fethullah Gulen, and Gulen Movement:
Dr. Carroll earned her Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University in 1994 with a specialty in philosophy of religion. She is the author of numerous articles and four books. Her recent book, A Dialogue of Civilizations: Gulen’s Islamic Ideals and Humanistic Discourse (*) was a Publishers Weekly bestseller in religion, having been in a “Top 10” category on Amazon in May 2007. She is a frequent guest on radio and television programs, and has been interviewed by The New York Times, PBS, MSNBC, and Good Morning America.
Below, you may watch an interview conducted by Ebru TV's Footnote Talk Show regarding Dr. Carroll's book, ideas of Fethullah Gulen, and Gulen Movement:
May 7, 2011
Turkey, Vietnam set to cement ties, increase trade to $2 bln
Ergin Hava
The government of Vietnam is keen to strengthen mutual trade and investment ties with Turkey and increase the current bilateral trade volume of $850 million to $2 billion in 2012, Vietnamese Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan said in an exclusive interview with Today's Zaman on Friday in İstanbul.
The government of Vietnam is keen to strengthen mutual trade and investment ties with Turkey and increase the current bilateral trade volume of $850 million to $2 billion in 2012, Vietnamese Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan said in an exclusive interview with Today's Zaman on Friday in İstanbul.
May 6, 2011
Fethullah Gülen extends condolences over Kastamonu attack
Today's Zaman
Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has extended his profound regret over the killing of a police officer in what he termed a “malicious ambush” and said he shares the sorrow with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
A group of outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) members is believed to be behind the attack on police officers who escorted Erdoğan in Kastamonu early on Wednesday. The attack left one dead and two others injured.
Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has extended his profound regret over the killing of a police officer in what he termed a “malicious ambush” and said he shares the sorrow with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
A group of outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) members is believed to be behind the attack on police officers who escorted Erdoğan in Kastamonu early on Wednesday. The attack left one dead and two others injured.
May 5, 2011
Is the Gülen Movement a civil society initiative?
Muhammed Çetin
Civil society is described "as an arena of friendships, clubs, churches, business associations, unions, human rights groups and other voluntary associations beyond the household but outside the state … [providing] citizens with opportunities to learn the democratic habits of free assembly, non-coercive dialogue and socioeconomic initiative.
"1 The terms "civil society sector" or "civil society organization" cover a broad array of organizations that are essentially private, that is, outside the institutional structures of government. They are also distinct from business organizations: They are not primarily commercial ventures set up principally to distribute profits to their directors or owners. They are self-governing and people are free to join or support them voluntarily.2
Civil society is described "as an arena of friendships, clubs, churches, business associations, unions, human rights groups and other voluntary associations beyond the household but outside the state … [providing] citizens with opportunities to learn the democratic habits of free assembly, non-coercive dialogue and socioeconomic initiative.
"1 The terms "civil society sector" or "civil society organization" cover a broad array of organizations that are essentially private, that is, outside the institutional structures of government. They are also distinct from business organizations: They are not primarily commercial ventures set up principally to distribute profits to their directors or owners. They are self-governing and people are free to join or support them voluntarily.2
May 4, 2011
Journalists’ ‘real fear’ in Turkey
Yavuz Baydar
Nobody disputes the fact that free speech and media freedoms are worrisome issues in today’s Turkey. Yet, there is a disturbing cacophony among my local colleagues when it comes to detecting the sources of such problems, exposing the culprits and diagnosing the chronic maladies that affect the profession.
What is worse, the cacophony, which is aimed at creating confusion for foreign observers and decision makers, is deliberately spread. Cynicism and partisanship have been basic elements that pollute the conduct of journalists here. No wonder undue simplifications are common among them.
Nobody disputes the fact that free speech and media freedoms are worrisome issues in today’s Turkey. Yet, there is a disturbing cacophony among my local colleagues when it comes to detecting the sources of such problems, exposing the culprits and diagnosing the chronic maladies that affect the profession.
What is worse, the cacophony, which is aimed at creating confusion for foreign observers and decision makers, is deliberately spread. Cynicism and partisanship have been basic elements that pollute the conduct of journalists here. No wonder undue simplifications are common among them.
May 3, 2011
Kimse Yok Mu to build 4 schools in Sudan
Today's Zaman
Turkish aid organization Kimse Yok Mu (Is Anybody There) has laid the foundation for the Kimse Yok Mu Education and Culture Complex, which contains four schools, to be built in South Darfur, Sudan.
South Darfur Governor Abdu-Elhameed Musa Kasha, Turkey's Ambassador to Sudan Yusuf Kenan Küçük and Kimse Yok Mu President Mehmet Özkara were among those present at the foundation-laying ceremony in Niyala, alongside Turkish businessmen and Sudanese citizens.
Turkish aid organization Kimse Yok Mu (Is Anybody There) has laid the foundation for the Kimse Yok Mu Education and Culture Complex, which contains four schools, to be built in South Darfur, Sudan.
South Darfur Governor Abdu-Elhameed Musa Kasha, Turkey's Ambassador to Sudan Yusuf Kenan Küçük and Kimse Yok Mu President Mehmet Özkara were among those present at the foundation-laying ceremony in Niyala, alongside Turkish businessmen and Sudanese citizens.
May 2, 2011
System change debates should not mar new constitution
Fatih Vural
After two days of intensive deliberations in the northwestern province of Bolu, the Abant Platform has urged the preparation of a new, civilian and democratic constitution in Turkey following the general elections of June 12, saying that the preparation process of the new constitution should not be deadlocked over debates about Turkey's possible system change.
The Abant Platform, which regularly convenes to discuss some of the most vital issues of Turkey and the world with the participation of individuals from every segment of society, gathered for its 23rd meeting titled, “New Constitution, New Term,” at the Abant Palace Hotel over the weekend.
After two days of intensive deliberations in the northwestern province of Bolu, the Abant Platform has urged the preparation of a new, civilian and democratic constitution in Turkey following the general elections of June 12, saying that the preparation process of the new constitution should not be deadlocked over debates about Turkey's possible system change.
The Abant Platform, which regularly convenes to discuss some of the most vital issues of Turkey and the world with the participation of individuals from every segment of society, gathered for its 23rd meeting titled, “New Constitution, New Term,” at the Abant Palace Hotel over the weekend.
May 1, 2011
Gülen paranoid
Abdülhamit Bilici
Reading some Turkey-originated media articles demonizing the Gülen movement and spreading the paranoia that people associated with the movement are turning a highly democratic country into an empire of fear, I start to realize that I have been very naive, unaware, disloyal and ungrateful.
It appears that I am not aware of the fact that our democracy has been smoothly functioning like clockwork for many decades, that our courts have been administering justice at the speed of light and that our prisons are filled only with people who are convicted by courts. I feel that I am too blind to see that the popular saying “Don’t hire a lawyer; instead hire a judge” was invented to depict the status of the judiciary in Patagonia, so I didn’t know that the country where members of the Supreme Court of Appeals, as the highest legal authority, asked some influential people, “Do you want us to quash or uphold it?” was Uganda. And no one from our country has ever applied to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) with complaints about human rights violations. The members of the judiciary who would diligently hail every coup and rush to attend every briefing invitation from the junta members were actually the citizens of Papua New Guinea. I did not know that Fethullah Gülen had to live in self-imposed exile for 13 years now with the accusation of treason by the same judiciary.
Reading some Turkey-originated media articles demonizing the Gülen movement and spreading the paranoia that people associated with the movement are turning a highly democratic country into an empire of fear, I start to realize that I have been very naive, unaware, disloyal and ungrateful.
It appears that I am not aware of the fact that our democracy has been smoothly functioning like clockwork for many decades, that our courts have been administering justice at the speed of light and that our prisons are filled only with people who are convicted by courts. I feel that I am too blind to see that the popular saying “Don’t hire a lawyer; instead hire a judge” was invented to depict the status of the judiciary in Patagonia, so I didn’t know that the country where members of the Supreme Court of Appeals, as the highest legal authority, asked some influential people, “Do you want us to quash or uphold it?” was Uganda. And no one from our country has ever applied to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) with complaints about human rights violations. The members of the judiciary who would diligently hail every coup and rush to attend every briefing invitation from the junta members were actually the citizens of Papua New Guinea. I did not know that Fethullah Gülen had to live in self-imposed exile for 13 years now with the accusation of treason by the same judiciary.
April 30, 2011
Turkey: Inspiring or insidious
Delphine Strauss
In one corner of the courtyard, green-painted railings enclose the tomb of a saint. In another, a pair of 12-year-old boys in spotless white shirts and neatly pressed trousers politely answer visitors' questions. In Diyarbakir, a city in Turkey's Kurdish south-east where many children work on the streets or land in jail for throwing stones at security forces, these two have come to prepare for high school entrance exams. Asked what they want to do later, one says "doctor" and the other, grinning, declares "police".
They are attending a study house run by supporters of Fethullah Gulen – a preacher who has inspired the creation of a vast network of schools and student dormitories that blend academic rigour, especially in the sciences, with a moral education based on Islamic principles.
In one corner of the courtyard, green-painted railings enclose the tomb of a saint. In another, a pair of 12-year-old boys in spotless white shirts and neatly pressed trousers politely answer visitors' questions. In Diyarbakir, a city in Turkey's Kurdish south-east where many children work on the streets or land in jail for throwing stones at security forces, these two have come to prepare for high school entrance exams. Asked what they want to do later, one says "doctor" and the other, grinning, declares "police".
They are attending a study house run by supporters of Fethullah Gulen – a preacher who has inspired the creation of a vast network of schools and student dormitories that blend academic rigour, especially in the sciences, with a moral education based on Islamic principles.
April 29, 2011
What are the Paths to Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue?: The Gulen Movement in the Interreligious Context
Fr. Thomas Michel*
1. Where do we begin?
Many people see the need for interreligious and intercultural dialogue but are not sure where to begin. I have often been asked, “How do you go about starting up dialogue with others?” Especially because I am a Christian who has lived and shared life with Muslims for many years, they ask, “How do you go about beginning a dialogue with Muslims? Where do you start?”
It’s a good question, and its one that I found myself asking back in 1978 in Indonesia. I had just finished my graduate studies in Islamic thought and was back in Indonesia and wondering where to begin to meet Muslims and enter into dialogue with them. On one occasion, I asked a prominent Muslim scholar how to go about this. The wisdom of his answer is one that has stayed with me and proven itself true over the years, so that by now it has also become my answer.
1. Where do we begin?
Many people see the need for interreligious and intercultural dialogue but are not sure where to begin. I have often been asked, “How do you go about starting up dialogue with others?” Especially because I am a Christian who has lived and shared life with Muslims for many years, they ask, “How do you go about beginning a dialogue with Muslims? Where do you start?”
It’s a good question, and its one that I found myself asking back in 1978 in Indonesia. I had just finished my graduate studies in Islamic thought and was back in Indonesia and wondering where to begin to meet Muslims and enter into dialogue with them. On one occasion, I asked a prominent Muslim scholar how to go about this. The wisdom of his answer is one that has stayed with me and proven itself true over the years, so that by now it has also become my answer.
April 28, 2011
Censorship in the Turkish media
İhsan Yılmaz
The anti-AK Party bloc has discovered a few new weapons against the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the alleged AK Party censorship of the Turkish media is one them.
Freedom of the press is one of the crucial pillars of democracy and all democratic states, civil society institutions and individuals are rightly sensitive about this issue. After observing that even the EU officials who are well aware of Turkish facts and realities were negatively influenced by the huge media campaign against the AK Party, which insisted that freedom of the press is in danger in Turkey, it seems that the anti-AK Party bloc will continue to wield this newly devised tool.
The anti-AK Party bloc has discovered a few new weapons against the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the alleged AK Party censorship of the Turkish media is one them.
Freedom of the press is one of the crucial pillars of democracy and all democratic states, civil society institutions and individuals are rightly sensitive about this issue. After observing that even the EU officials who are well aware of Turkish facts and realities were negatively influenced by the huge media campaign against the AK Party, which insisted that freedom of the press is in danger in Turkey, it seems that the anti-AK Party bloc will continue to wield this newly devised tool.
April 27, 2011
Gülen Community and Fethullah Gülen's Reminder
Hadi Uluengin
Last week in this column I wrote that large masses whose common denominator is to adopt Fethullah Gülen’s spiritual leadership cannot be referred to as a 'cemaat' or religious community or brotherhood. (*)
I made this claim because the Gülen Movement’s pluralism in quantity and diversity in quality means that it must now be defined as a 'camia' or a social community. Generating differences is natural, and such is the case in every intensifying body. To cut a long story short, with the exception of loyalty to the charismatic figure who has been compelled to live in the US against his will, participants in this movement do not act in a monolithic manner. Nor are they part of any centrally organized hierarchy.
Despite the reality that this phenomenon of transition from a religious brotherhood to a community has most definitely occurred—a process of expansion and diversification—the 'other’s' perception of the Gülen Movement has not changed. By 'other' I refer to those large masses who are essentially from secular, urban, and Alevite circles, and who are allergic to the word 'tariqat,' or spiritual order, because of earlier conditioning. It is a fact that these circles consider the community in question to be a 'monster'—a monster who is all-powerful and able to do anything it wants. Imagine a 'monster' (which is a combination of) associations from other cultures: a monster organized in a Bolshevik central discipline, raised in a Catholic Jesuit elitism, equipped with a Protestant Calvinist mission, and kneaded in the secrecy of the Catholic Opus Dei or a secular Freemasonry. And whoever looks cross-eyed at this 'monster' or places an obstacle in its path is doomed to be immediately sent to Silivri Prison!
Last week in this column I wrote that large masses whose common denominator is to adopt Fethullah Gülen’s spiritual leadership cannot be referred to as a 'cemaat' or religious community or brotherhood. (*)
I made this claim because the Gülen Movement’s pluralism in quantity and diversity in quality means that it must now be defined as a 'camia' or a social community. Generating differences is natural, and such is the case in every intensifying body. To cut a long story short, with the exception of loyalty to the charismatic figure who has been compelled to live in the US against his will, participants in this movement do not act in a monolithic manner. Nor are they part of any centrally organized hierarchy.
Despite the reality that this phenomenon of transition from a religious brotherhood to a community has most definitely occurred—a process of expansion and diversification—the 'other’s' perception of the Gülen Movement has not changed. By 'other' I refer to those large masses who are essentially from secular, urban, and Alevite circles, and who are allergic to the word 'tariqat,' or spiritual order, because of earlier conditioning. It is a fact that these circles consider the community in question to be a 'monster'—a monster who is all-powerful and able to do anything it wants. Imagine a 'monster' (which is a combination of) associations from other cultures: a monster organized in a Bolshevik central discipline, raised in a Catholic Jesuit elitism, equipped with a Protestant Calvinist mission, and kneaded in the secrecy of the Catholic Opus Dei or a secular Freemasonry. And whoever looks cross-eyed at this 'monster' or places an obstacle in its path is doomed to be immediately sent to Silivri Prison!
April 26, 2011
Analysis of the Gulen Movement
The book, The Gülen Movement: A Sociological Analysis of a Civic Movement Rooted in Moderate Islam, is one of the first academic books about Fethullah Gülen, a Turkish scholar and preacher, and the civic movement he inspired in Turkey and ultimately throughout the world. The movement is rooted in moderate Islam and is committed to educating youth, fostering interfaith and intercultural dialogue, assisting the needy in society and contributing to global peace. Based on interview data and visits to Gülen-inspired institutions, the book describes the movement from a sociological perspective, especially through the lens of social movement theory. It is the first book, grounded in empirical methodology, to describe the movement to a Western audience. It will be of special interest to social scientists interested in religious movements, religious scholars seeking information on Islamic movements and the general public eager to discover a moderate Islam that promotes humanitarian projects.
Here is an interview with the author of the book, Prof. Helen Rose Ebaugh*, on the Gulen Movement and its dynamics:
Here is an interview with the author of the book, Prof. Helen Rose Ebaugh*, on the Gulen Movement and its dynamics:
April 25, 2011
Fethullah Gülen: 'I have no other goal than to please God'
Michele Brignone
Born in Turkey and for some time resident in the United States of America, Fethullah Gülen is seen by the American press as one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the planet.
A philosopher, theologian and preacher, he is one of the founders of a movement which is widespread in many countries and active in very various fields, from the economy to education.
Fethullah Gülen is one is one of the most influential intellectuals on the planet. A Muslim, born in Turkey, a polymath active in many areas, he was at the origin of an international movement affecting civil society, the economy, and especially education: "the greatest gift a generation can give to another."
Born in Turkey and for some time resident in the United States of America, Fethullah Gülen is seen by the American press as one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the planet.
A philosopher, theologian and preacher, he is one of the founders of a movement which is widespread in many countries and active in very various fields, from the economy to education.
Fethullah Gülen is one is one of the most influential intellectuals on the planet. A Muslim, born in Turkey, a polymath active in many areas, he was at the origin of an international movement affecting civil society, the economy, and especially education: "the greatest gift a generation can give to another."
April 24, 2011
Ankara’s secret: Stupidity or conspiracy?
Mustafa Akyol
I am not the greatest fan of Charles Krauthammer, the neoconservative columnist of the Washington Post. But the man is undoubtedly smart, and one of his insights was a true gem. “In explaining any puzzling Washington phenomenon,” he advised in his column, “always choose stupidity over conspiracy, incompetence over cunning.” The opposite, he said, gives American politicians and bureaucrats “too much credit.”
I know there are huge differences between Washington and Ankara, but there might well be parallels as well. And the more I get to know the ways of the latter, and the details of the puzzling phenomena there, the more I tend to think like Krauthammer.
I am not the greatest fan of Charles Krauthammer, the neoconservative columnist of the Washington Post. But the man is undoubtedly smart, and one of his insights was a true gem. “In explaining any puzzling Washington phenomenon,” he advised in his column, “always choose stupidity over conspiracy, incompetence over cunning.” The opposite, he said, gives American politicians and bureaucrats “too much credit.”
I know there are huge differences between Washington and Ankara, but there might well be parallels as well. And the more I get to know the ways of the latter, and the details of the puzzling phenomena there, the more I tend to think like Krauthammer.
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