Editorial
Dear readers, we are pleased to present the 167th issue of Köprü Journal. As mentioned in our previous issue, we continue to explore the theme of Family. Our 167th issue, titled “Family in the Context of Democratic and Economic Values,” features articles that particularly evaluate the significance of the family institution in social life.
It should be recognized that the expression of democratic principles within the family institution is crucial for familial stability. Democratic governance continues to be effective across all institutions in the world’s developed nations. It is observed that countries with high levels of prosperity are particularly sensitive to the concepts of consultation (meşveret) and council (şura), which Bediüzzaman Said Nursi specifically emphasizes in Risale-i Nur. Conversely, underdeveloped countries generally tend to operate their state administrations and institutions through autocratic management. Similarly, countries’ governance styles and approaches have influenced whether they produce despotic or free individuals. Consequently, each system creates conditions conducive to raising individuals aligned with its adopted management style. When these individuals establish families—society’s smallest institution—their inherent despotic or libertarian spirit, encoded in their nature, becomes activated. The contagious effect of despotism, which Nursi characterizes as a “communicable disease,” first manifests itself in the family environment. A father might display despotism toward the mother, who may, in turn, impose pressure on the children. Instead, establishing family consultation environments, now supported by scientific studies, is crucial for family harmony and continuity. In such environments, children will develop secure attachments to the family. The establishment of ideal family communication will bring psychological and sociological relief.
The democratic structure within families plays a vital role in individuals developing a sense of responsibility. When examining economic problems, particularly from a micro perspective, it becomes apparent that they stem from individuals lacking responsibility consciousness prioritizing their interests over society’s welfare. Said Nursi, in his work İşarat’ül İcaz, identifies this as one of the significant causes driving humanity toward revolution. He portrays people who strive only for individual satisfaction, expressed in the saying “What do I care if others starve as long as I’m fed,” as those who dedicate their efforts solely to their own desires. Furthermore, referring to Hazrat Ali, he states that such individuals who live only for themselves are not worthy of the name “human.” People enslaved to their own desires develop consumption habits driven by hedonic motivations. It is known that families face serious trials regarding consumption frenzy. People who do not embrace the culture of zakat and other forms of mutual assistance cause the widening gap between income groups in economic life. A simple example is the existence of affluent people on one side and millions unable to access basic food on the other.
The family is the most crucial unit where responsibility consciousness should be established. Parents, who should serve as role models for children through their prudent approach to household shopping, should also teach budget management practically in the family environment through the allowances they give to children. It should not be overlooked that actions have a higher impact level than words in this context. Another point is the reality that parents who spend their earnings solely on their children cannot raise individuals with a sense of responsibility. Such children inevitably become egotistic in the future. American Psychologist Jean M. Twenge has authored a book defining this generation as the “Me Generation.” Children lacking responsibility consciousness not only fail to contribute to society but also become a different kind of ‘being’ unable to sustain themselves. However, families’ important goals should include raising individuals who not only are self-sufficient but also engage in beneficial work for society’s interests.
In our previous issue, we attempted to include studies emphasizing the importance of the family institution as society’s foundation. In this issue, we have focused on articles emphasizing two crucial topics for family continuity: economic values and democratic values. We announce that our 168th issue will address the topic of “Emotions,” and we wish you health and happiness.