The idea that an Islamic society held centuries ago, standards of tolerance that exceeds that of Americans today seems appalling to most. However when paying close attention to the Tanzimat Resources one cannot help but note that Ottoman Turks were just as open to other religions and races as any “democratic and free” nation today. Personal property was also respected, and although the right to free speech is not included in the Turkish declaration of human rights, there must have been very little complaint. This humongous empire prospered for centuries over vast territories.
Since the Ottomans managed to rule over such a diverse population, they must have gained the respect of their subjects. Of course a little fear is great incentive to bow down and do as you are told, but that can only last for so long. Respect is gained by reciprocity, and the Ottomans were fairer than any contemporary European nation. Emphasis is placed on collective good while most western nations evolved to into individualistic societies; however the Turks managed to balance the collective good with that of the State, which never ceased to search for greater riches. The idea that Islam is an oppressive religion is therefore flawed as thousands were able to live under its rule freely. This pervasive view of Muslim that persists till this day should be corrected. The religion itself is no more oppressive than any other, it is rather the people’s interpretation of the Koran that give gateway to tyrannical acts; and that goes for any religion.
I couldn't agree more. After having studied Islam, I wonder where people get their stereotypes? I'd like to think it's not just from 9-11 or from suicide bombers and bin-laden. But I'm starting to think it is. This is a huge reason why I decided to major in religion because as I was taking a general education class that covered the Abrahamic religions, my naive view of Islam changed completely and I realized just how ignorant (I know this is a strong word, but it is very appropriate) the general public was concerning Islam. It can be such a dangerous thing, this ignorance--because it manifests itself in hate and persecution.
ReplyDeletei agree! its very much common that the united states is numb to the world around us especially the middle east. Not only is it not talked about but it also very much stereotyped especially from the two attacks on the world trades in '93 and the attack in '01. In one of my classes a few years ago we looked at how seporated the United States is from people from the Middle East. We looked at what happen during 9/11 and realized that there werent very few if not any cab drivers or food stands out that day. it was almost like they knew what was going to happen. also it was reported that a school girl in elementary school told her teacher that the towers werent going to be there one day. since the child was young the teacher didnt find it something to be worried about until the day came that they werent there. Im not saying posting anything against either the United States or the Middle East at all! I'm just drawing parallels to show that there is a big division between the United States and the Middle East. So much so that 9/11 happened and we're over in Iraq doing more that the people from America knows.
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