February 10, 2025
Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF) hosted İhsan Fazlıoğlu as part of the Maarif Talks. In the talk titled “Between Education and Teaching: Belonging and Allegiance”, the basic dynamics of education systems, the identity construction of the individual and how concepts shape the social structure were discussed. The program was attended by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Emre Bilgili, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Turkish Maarif Foundation, members of the Foundation's board of directors and Foundation staff. Speaking at the opening of the program, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Emre Bilgili thanked İhsan Fazlıoğlu for accepting their invitation as part of the Maarif Talks. Fazlıoğlu emphasized that education is not only the transfer of knowledge, but also a process that strengthens the individual's sense of belonging to their existence, and stated that human beings shape all their achievements through education and cultural interaction.
“Societies that forget their questions are condemned to the answers presented to them”
Drawing attention to the philosophical dimension of education throughout the interview, Fazlıoğlu emphasized the power of concepts and said, “Societies exist and are shaped by concepts. Incorrect or incomplete use of concepts creates a 'trauma of meaning' and weakens the thinking of individuals.” He also stated that one of the reasons for the collapse of civilization is the loss of the ability to ask questions and said, “Societies that forget their questions are condemned to the answers presented to them and experience an intellectual collapse.”
Referring to the differences between education and training, Fazlıoğlu stated that the sense of belonging is vital for individuals. He emphasized that in societies where belonging is weak, there is an identity crisis and individuals become more open to the influence of other cultures. In this context, he stated that education is not only about transferring knowledge, but should also support the individual's character development and moral maturity. Fazlıoğlu stated that decency and moral development should be at the heart of education and said, “Schools provide education, but the process of gaining true belonging and individuality takes place within the family and society.” The interview ended with the presentation of gifts after the intense interest of the participants and the interactive question-answer session.
