Thesis

Said Nursi’s Ideal for Human Society: Moral and Social Reform in the Risale-i Nur

This thesis presents a critical analysis of the writings and discourse of Said Nursi ofTurkey (1876-1960), an important figure in the 20th century Muslim World, withspecial reference to “ideal society”. Among the many writings on Nursi’s life andideas, unfortunately none have specifically discussed his ideas regarding “idealsociety” in an academic context. This thesis is an attempt to trace an understanding ofthe foundations and origins of the footsteps of Nursi’s thought system, in which hedeals with ideas linked to “ideal society”. Priority is given to his socio-theologicalrather than theological aspects of his writings.The main objective of the thesis can be roughly summarised as an exploration of theimpact of religion, science and social factors in the thoughts of Nursi on “idealsociety” by employing a combined theoretical framework consisting of modernist andcontemporary approaches.The study is divided into two parts. The first part presents a general overview of theconcept of “ideal society” throughout history. The second chapter sets out thebackground to his life and his ideas, examining the varied writings in each period andaiming to find the parallels between the general course of the Islamic world in the 20thcentury and the course of Nursi’s life. The second part takes up the main themes ofhis discourse. Belief as the bedrock of society is outlined together with the dichotomybetween iman and Islam. Particular attention is given to his intellectual methodologyand main influences. Later social reform and social change is also considered. Itassesses whether Islam is something which can be imposed from top or bottom; withparticular reference to a-political Islam and the phenomenon of social change.Furthermore, religion, science and scientism are addressed, applying the newterminology of “Sacrelisation of Science”. By providing a composite picture ofNursi’s ideas of “ideal society” in a detailed part, the thesis also deals with his viewson politics, the West and civilisation.In addition, the study is supported by two appendices, containing a full bibliographyof his works and studies.

Author: Hörküç, Hasan

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2004
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Thesis
Doctoral
Durham University

Thesis Advisor Name:  Prof. Dr. Colin Turner
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Conference_Venue: 10047
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Horkuc [2004] PhD Thesis Nursi on Human Society.pdf