Juan,
For years I have relied on your blog for deeply informed commentary which is why I am puzzled at the use of the pejorative terms "shadowy" and "cult-like" in reference to the Hizmet movement inspired by Fethullah Gulen. I am an expert in neither Turkey nor Hizmet, but I have been teaching Middle Eastern history for 37 years. I have also interacted with Hizmet members for many years in the U.S. and in Turkey. Nothing in my experience accurately describes them as "shadowy" or "cult-like." I would be happy to be further enlightened. Thanks for all that you are doing.
Juan,
For years I have relied on your blog for deeply informed commentary which is why I am puzzled at the use of the pejorative terms "shadowy" and "cult-like" in reference to the Hizmet movement inspired by Fethullah Gulen. I am an expert in neither Turkey nor Hizmet, but I have been teaching Middle Eastern history for 37 years. I have also interacted with Hizmet members for many years in the U.S. and in Turkey. Nothing in my experience accurately describes them as "shadowy" or "cult-like." I would be happy to be further enlightened. Thanks for all that you are doing.