The author begins by admitting that the subject of this discourse may appear unworthy of a statesman’s valuable time. Many people regard the Ottoman Empire as barbarous, and for this reason believe it does not deserve serious attention. Because of this common prejudice, the author fears that the contents of his work might seem unimportant or unrefined.
Yet he argues that true knowledge, even when drawn from unfamiliar or misunderstood sources, has great value. He compares such knowledge to a precious jewel, like a turquoise or another rare stone, set among the many fine gems of the reader’s wisdom and virtue. Though small in appearance, it adds beauty and depth to the whole.
Barbarity as a Matter of Perspective
The author explains that things are often called “barbarous” simply because they are different from what we know. Customs, manners, and ways of life that do not match our own fashions are quickly judged as inferior. This judgment, he suggests, comes not from reason, but from ignorance and lack of familiarity Guided Round Tours Turkey.
When people encounter habits unlike their own, they often form unfair opinions. Difference is mistaken for inferiority. The author reminds the reader that prejudice is frequently born from distance and misunderstanding rather than careful observation.
A Wise and Balanced Judgment
Turning again to the person addressed, the author expresses confidence in the reader’s wisdom. He believes that this statesman judges human actions carefully and fairly. Rather than measuring societies by outward appearances, clothing, or customs, he examines their fundamental principles, institutions, and systems of order.
Such a method of judgment, the author argues, leads to more accurate conclusions about politics and government. True policy and sound administration cannot be understood by surface impressions alone.
The True Nature of the Turks
From this broader perspective, the author concludes that the Turks cannot be as savage or uncivilized as they are often described. They are human beings of the same nature and composition as Europeans. Like all peoples, their actions are shaped by laws, traditions, and circumstances.
The author further argues that ignorance and roughness are usually the result of poverty and hardship, not inherent qualities of a nation. Prosperous and well-organized societies naturally develop order, discipline, and intelligence. Since the Ottoman Empire is powerful, wealthy, and stable, it cannot reasonably be considered ignorant or barbarous in the way critics suggest.
Understanding Beyond Appearances
The author urges readers to move beyond stereotypes and superficial judgments. By studying the Ottoman Empire carefully, one may discover reason, structure, and political skill beneath unfamiliar customs.
In closing, the author presents his work as a call for fair judgment and informed understanding. What seems strange or foreign should not be dismissed without thought. True wisdom lies in looking beyond appearances and recognizing the shared humanity and rational order that exist in all great societies.