The Istanbul Forum Talks continued with its fifth session, featuring Prof. Dr. Tahsin Görgün, who delivered a lecture titled “Philosophy in a Times of Genoside.” Görgün examined the role and significance of philosophy during genocidal periods, focusing on the concepts of existence, knowledge, and values, and the fundamental challenges they pose in such contexts.
He emphasized that understanding the root causes of issues requires a clear distinction between right and wrong. Görgün noted that while Western philosophy excels in diagnosing problems, it often falls short in offering solutions. He attributed this shortfall to the reference frameworks guiding Western societies, rooted in Enlightenment principles.
Görgün argued that contemporary tendencies toward genocide have been shaped by adherence to these principles in the West. He pointed out that science, art, and politics in Western contexts are built on a particular sense of loyalty and claimed that the blurring of boundaries between good and evil is a key driver behind genocides.
Turning to the responsibilities of the Islamic world and Turkish Muslims, Görgün stressed the importance of resisting organized forms of evil. He called on Muslims to have a deep understanding of their values and to organize around them. He highlighted that loyalty to truth is crucial for building a meaningful connection with it, offering new opportunities for humanity.
Concluding his talk, Görgün urged a reevaluation of the concept of existence in relation to prophetic teachings, describing this as a pathway to safeguarding the existence of both Muslims and humanity at large.
