The Death of Humanity
On one side, there’s close combat in Ukraine between two of the most civilized nations; on the other, Chinese–U.S. tension over Taiwan. Add to this global warming, environmental destruction, moral decadence, food crises, nuclear threats, and the arms race—the problems keep piling up. Ironically, the proposed solution—”printing money”—is yet another problem.
Death may be inevitable, but it needn’t come in the most senseless way. Many of us wish to die one day, but with dignity. Suicide, though sometimes contemplated, is often a symptom of deeper misalignment—either a misreading of events by the individual or external pressures pushing them toward such an end.
The Need for a Goal
Humans need a purpose. Without it, society—like individuals—risks metaphorical or even literal suicide. In today’s world of abundance and automation, we face an unexpected enemy: comfort. In the past, survival was the goal. Then came religion, nationalism, human rights, and class struggle to offer new meanings.
Now, free from many old problems, we face a new one—leisure without direction. Without a “why” to live, existence loses its weight. Enlightenment—awakening—could be the ultimate goal to pursue in this modern vacuum.
The Necessity of Living
Life is neither wholly necessary nor unnecessary—it is shaped by context. In the Middle Ages, we lived for the lord; during industrialization, for the nation. Serious causes structured our identities. Now, we live for nothing but ourselves—and that void is overwhelming.
But the call to enlightenment remains. It is our responsibility to rise above ignorance and cruelty. Just as a bird uses its wings to fly, humans must use their intellect to thrive. If we don’t rediscover purpose, we risk self-destruction—simply because life without cause becomes unsustainable.
Turkey in Between
Turkey, a developing nation, still finds meaning in its immediate struggles: survival, development, and catching up with historic rivals. But global collapse looms, and Turkey, like any country, cannot remain unaffected. “When elephants fight, it’s the grass that suffers.” Giants clash over ideologies, and smaller states get trampled in the process.
With a moderate economy and geopolitical role, Turkey is average in many ways. Yet it lags behind in enlightenment. Social values are unstable, knowledge is devalued, and conventions often override facts—especially under the influence of social media. Developing countries like Turkey bear heavier cultural damage than developed ones.
Still, this disadvantage could be flipped into a strength. Turkey is behind the West but ahead of many neighbors. By helping enlighten others, Turkey can reflect that progress onto itself. The best way to learn is to teach. As Heidegger noted, in teaching, the teacher learns first.
Enlightenment Through Service
If Turkey struggles with education, how can it lead? Here lies the paradox: “The wound is the place where the light enters you,” says Rumi. Helping others is a healing process—for both parties. Crises hold potential. Everyone starts ignorant; growth demands effort.
Turkey is a natural candidate for leading a new enlightenment—not only to improve herself but to lift the region around her. By embracing this mission, the country would find a lasting purpose.
Ignorance can become momentum. While Europe redirected its purpose toward economics, Turkey can embrace enlightenment as the true goal. Economic tools must serve that higher calling—not replace it.
