Ibrahim Ethem’s book “Terbiye-i İrade” has met with readers in modern Turkish.

Ketebe Publications has published the work “Terbiye-i İrade,” authored by Dr. Ethem Bakar, in both its original text and a simplified version. The book, titled “İrade Terbiyesi,” is breaking sales records.

Dr. Ethem Bakar, a medical doctor specializing in willpower education, wrote “Terbiye-i İrade” in the early 20th century, and it gained significant popularity among Ottoman readers upon its release. This important work aimed to raise awareness about willpower training among all segments of Ottoman society, especially the youth of that time. Ethem Bakar created a comprehensive guide drawing heavily from Western sources. The adapted version of the book in modern Turkish by Ketebe Publications is currently at the top of the bestseller lists.

“Irade Terbiyesi” consists of two main sections, with the first being theoretical and the second focusing more on practical application. The first section covers topics such as what willpower is, whether willpower training is possible, related theories, the psychological aspects of willpower, and the possibility of self-control. In the second section, the means necessary to strengthen one’s willpower are explained, and it offers guidance on how to combat harmful thoughts and emotions that lead a person astray.

For years, Turkish readers who pursued a misunderstood version of the book have finally found the recommended original work through Ketebe Publications. Thanks to the research conducted by Dr. Ömer Faruk Can, a faculty member at Sakarya University, and calligrapher Fatma Zehra Can, a comprehensive biography of the author was compiled, shedding light on the identity of the author.