Baiting the Hook for a Different Economic Model

Submitted by M. Tovey (United States), Jan 26, 2012 at 11:01

Dr. Pipes:

There are few things that give the appearance of PM Erdoǧan's peculiar style of Islamic governance; and it does give an idea that he may really think his way might be the model of a modern Islamic state. But as anyone who has studied the precepts of Islamic governance, would it be perceptive based on your knowledge to note that Islam will never fully function as a style of government other than an oligarchy?

This might be yet another distinction from the Quran about how a Biblically based style of governance does allow for increases in the economic base, up to an including a moderated form of usury. This is further enhanced in a society that by honoring the LORD, He will bless the nation that honors Him and stymie those who do not. By the imposition of the 'shari'a model of economics, there appears to be a further burden on the economic liberties that might otherwise be enjoyed in a free society.

When PM Erdoǧan's economic theories begin to erode Turkey's already questionable fiduciary status, that resource field off the coast of Cyprus will look all the more enticing than has been already expressed. But by this opinion, Turkey will have to fall in line: others are eyeing that all too closely to leave it alone. Given all the other things Turkey is stirring up, what with the false allegations against Israel's part in the Mavi Marmara and other things, isn't this as much of a reason to start hostilities as anything an Islamic mindset might initiate?

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