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The YTÜ Fikir Meclisi, a reflection of Yıldız Technical University’s commitment to fostering intellectual and cultural discourse, hosted Prof. Dr. M. Hüsrev Subaşı at its May gathering. During the discussion, held in the historic setting of the Otağ-ı Hümayun, the artistic memory, aesthetic sensibilities, and vision of civilization in Anatolia were explored in depth.

Launched with the vision of universities serving as centers of science where policy, strategy, and ideas are generated, the YTÜ Ideas Council continues to host academic and cultural brainstorming sessions. Organized under the leadership of the Yıldız Technical University (YTÜ) Communication Coordination Office, the monthly series of thought, culture, and art discussions—featuring experts in their fields during the first week of each month—held its May session at Otağ-ı Hümayun on May 4, 2026.

Held in an interactive panel format at our Davutpaşa Campus, which boasts a rich historical and cultural atmosphere, the event featured Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hüsrev Subaşı, a faculty member at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Foundation University, calligrapher, and author, as the guest speaker. The program, titled "Reflections on the Heritage of Art and Culture," drew participation from academic staff, students, and invited guests interested in the world of ideas. It analyzed the intellectual heritage spanning from the past to the present and discussed its integration with the modern world. 

"If knowledge does not transform into wisdom, it leaves you halfway up the ladder"

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hüsrev Subaşı, drawing on the sense of reverence evoked in the human spirit by the centuries-old fabric of Otağ-ı Hümayun, touched upon the profound effects of ancient architecture and the materials used on human psychology. 

Pointing out the compassionate closeness of wood to human nature, Subaşı summarized the sociological implications of architectural choices with the words: “If there is an abundance of wood in the space where you sit, you cannot be cruel; you cannot be unjust; wood softens the human heart, while concrete dehumanizes it.” 

Drawing attention to the fact that true education and academic transmission cannot be limited to mere memorization, the master artist stated, “True teaching is not about filling the student’s mind and heart with knowledge; it is, in a sense, guidance—clearing the path for the student with compassion.” 

Continuing his speech, Subaşı emphasized the role of the knowledge processing process in human nature, underscoring the vital importance of data evolving into wisdom, and remarked, “Therefore, if knowledge does not transform into wisdom, it leaves you halfway up the ladder; even if you climb with fleeting opportunities on the surface, you cannot reach your goal.”

Criticism of the shift from the aesthetics of the past to today’s speed-driven world

In the second part of his talk, Prof. Dr. Subaşı presented a wide range of examples, from the architectural masterpieces of the Anatolian Seljuk and Ottoman periods—from the Konya Karatay Madrasa to the Divriği Ulu Mosque—explaining that our ancestors, while working with stone, conveyed a universal message of civilization. 

Noting that traditional architecture was not merely a visual concern but imbued spaces with values such as compassion and humility, Subaşı stated, “We did not come to these lands by chance; upon closer inspection, the geometry and ornamentation there have something to say about humanity and a civilization that produces positive values,” reminding the audience that historical monuments are books to be read. 

Making striking observations about the monotonous lifestyle brought by the modern age, the academic drew attention to the cultural erosion faced by the new generation, noting, “Two things take center stage in life: pleasure and speed. Yet there are so many beautiful wisdom to be learned and savored in the world.” With these words, he emphasized the need to re-instill in today’s youth the refined spirit that our ancestors preserved through their alms stones and bird pavilions.

The program concluded with YTÜ Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Vatan Karakaya presenting a commemorative gift to Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hüsrev Subaşı in honor of the occasion and a group photo session following the conclusion of the Q&A session.