Hardline Muslim groups often portray the Ottoman empire as a magic template for a global caliphate. This is then used as a springboard for grandiose arguments that paint a caliphate as VIAble, and deem it as the only credible model of governance for the future.
These arguments are based on a belief that the empire adhered to a single interpretation of sharia (Islamic law) for over 600 years, and – crucially – that its success was contingent on this.
[A COMMENT] It is legitimate to point out that in some respects the Ottoman Empire embraced secularism and reform, but the generalisations are wildly overstated.
The Tanzimat reforms were largely negated by the fierce opposition of the religious authorities. Many of the proposed reforms, including an elected Parliament and full equality for Jews and Christians were blocked. [Guardian Cif] Read more
