I found it interesting that the whole Ottoman Empire was seen as an extension of the Sultan's household. That philosophy lends itself to the idea that every one in the empire was cared for by the state, and also disciplined by the state. It is an agreement that the state takes care of it's people and in return they must defend and serve the greater good of the empire. There were very sophisticated ways of making sure the agreement was upheld, like schooling that prepared children for military and political service, taxes based on many factors, and organizations to help the needy (i.e. soup kitchens). 

The reading mentioned that women held power in the Ottoman empire. They could own their own not-for-profit organization, and they were involved with the business of the running of the empire. Unlike many other types of rulers from the same time period, sultans were faithful to one woman and she acted as a kind of "fist lady" within the empire. The mother of the sultan was the most powerful figure in the nation. This is one of the only times throughout our study of the Mediterranean when women are powerful and respected.