The History of Ethics of Kazakhs

This paper analyses the history of ethical thinking of Kazakhs and its context in the nomadic traditions of Central Asia, which arises from an ancient branch of Turkic-speaking culture and includes layers of Indo-Iranian, Chinese and Arab cultures. The position of Kazakhs on the Silk Road has meant that ethical thought has been influenced by ideas from across Eurasia. However, even with the coming of Islam and later invasions, Kazakh thought has retained its distinctiveness and elements dating back to its early origins. The paper explores the evolution of ethical thinking from Korkyt-Ata in the VIII century to that of the Abai Kunanbayev in the XIX century Kazakh Enlightenment. Throughout Kazakh history, the expression of ideas and their relationship with society (rulers and people) has been through poetry and song. Kazakh poetic philosophizing is a fusion of mind and heart, Sufi mysticism and rational knowledge. Further traditions, such as the principle of hospitality, are also key elements in the evolution of Kazakh ethical thinking.