Abai – A Reformer of Human Consciousness

Abstract

This article explores the worldview of the thinker Abai and his role as a reformer of Kazakh consciousness through the lens of his prose work Words of Edification (Gakliya). Abai’s reform of traditional modes of thinking within the historically shaped Kazakh consciousness is not limited to his critique of proverbs, but also lies in his thoughtful re-evaluation of common judgments – sometimes made knowingly, sometimes not – urging a deeper, more critical engagement with these ideas. Through logical reasoning, Abai insists on the need to deepen certain concepts, interpretations, and judgments. His reformism lies in the creative introduction of new modes of thinking into the national mindset, worldview, and cognitive foundation. Abai revealed the golden thread of recognizing truth and self-awareness, presenting a simple yet effective system for understanding these profound ideas. He utilized straightforward thinking methods to explain complex truths. For instance, he uses reductio ad absurdum (proof by contradiction) to expose flawed patterns of thinking commonly accepted through simplistic worldviews: “Now it seems God grants wealth to some good-for-nothing without any effort. Yet when someone prays to God, works honestly, and seeks benefit through honest labor, God refuses to reward his effort – does not even allow him to feed his family properly, keeps him poor. He afflicts a harmless, innocent person with illness and disgrace, while letting thieves and villains remain healthy. Of two siblings with the same parents, He makes one wise and the other foolish.” This method, reminiscent of formal logic, was also used by Socrates. By employing a Socratic method, Abai encourages people to re-evaluate the logic and validity of their commonly held beliefs, to weigh right and wrong in the scales of reason. Thus, he cultivates the necessity of rethinking, guiding the development of critical thinking.

People often rely on ingrained cognitive patterns, the origins of which are frequently unknown. These patterns are especially hard to shed when rooted in religion or politics. Breaking these entrenched molds requires individuals with creative, critical minds. Abai’s innovation lies in his ability to challenge these internalized norms and guide people toward truth and self-awareness.