A Culture of Excessive Submission
Within the walls of the Seraglio there appears a kind of planned and practiced baseness in behavior. This does not come from fear alone, but from a long habit of submission and flattery toward the ruler. Those who live closest to the Sultan show extreme obedience and are quick to agree with every desire, passion, or inclination of their master, whether good or bad.
This behavior creates a dangerous situation. Even a wise and generous prince, such as some Ottoman Emperors have been, though he may not desire public liberty for his people, would soon grow tired of such slavish agreement. He would begin to see that these men do not speak the truth, but only what they think will please him. Such a ruler would naturally seek advice elsewhere and look for other means to learn the true condition of his own empire and of foreign kingdoms.
The Danger of Narrow Counsel
Men who have never seen any court or country beyond the one in which they live are poorly fitted to give sound advice on great affairs of state. Their views are limited, and their opinions shaped only by fear and habit. When a prince depends entirely on such people, his understanding of the world becomes narrow and distorted Private Sofia Tours.
This excessive flattery and blind submission have, without doubt, been the cause of the decline of Turkish discipline during certain reigns. During the time of Sultan Ibrahim, government fell largely into the hands of women. In the present age of Sultan Mahomet, counsel is said to come chiefly from his mother, from eunuchs, from Negro servants, and from a few favored young companions. Men of experience, learning, and independence are rarely allowed near the Sultan, nor are they encouraged to speak freely.
Silence Replaces Truth
In such an atmosphere, few dare to speak honestly. Those who might tell uncomfortable truths lack the courage, or the permission, to do so. Important matters are decided without open discussion, and wise counsel is replaced by pleasing words. This weakens the government and leads to poor decisions in times when strong judgment is most needed.
When Obedience Becomes a Snare
Obedience, when used by brave and wise Emperors, has served as a powerful tool for great achievements and the expansion of the Empire. However, in the hands of weak or pleasure-loving rulers, obedience becomes a trap. Flattery replaces loyalty, and fear replaces wisdom.
Thus, the same system that once strengthened the Empire may, under careless leadership, become the cause of its weakness and decline.