Siyasetname As An Interpretation Of Traditional Philosophy Of Politics And State -On The Philosophy Of Politics And State Of Great Statesman Nizamulmulk-

The present study, “Siyasetname” written by famous statesman Nizamülmülk is examined as an interpretation of traditional politics and government philosophy. This work of Nizamülmülk that managed to survive until today is an important resource for historians and political scientists, not only to understand the ideas of this scientist and statesman, but also because it reflects the properties of its period. There is no doubt that Nizamülmülk, who worked as a vizier for two sultans of Seljuk Government, had a significant impact on the structure and mentality of the Turkish state. Besides being the continuation of a previously existing tradition, “Siyasetname” also has aspects deviating from this earlier tradition. Not only did his work give advice and recommendations for sultans, but also contributed significantly to the system of government. In other words, concrete, practical, and feasible measures on what should happen were recommended in the work. It also reflects the structure of government and bureaucracy, interaction between the manager and the managed, and the rhetoric of opposition of the time. Because of these characteristics, the work definitely has a historical value. In summary, Nizamülmülk represents a philosophy of government and politics that is strong, paternalistic, and compatible with religion. This understanding strongly reflects perspectives regarding traditional state and politics. As well as his “twin sister” theory of religion and state, his idea of social state also has a current value and thus should be developed.

Keywords

Nizamülmülk, Siyasetname, Politics, State, Philosophy of Politics and State.