Turkish Identity

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Introduction
• Construction of the Work
• Literature Review and Methodology
• Europeanness
• Definition of Europe and Europeanness
• European Identity in Connection with European Culture and Its Problem Fields
• Inclusion, Exclusion and Multiple Identities
• Europeanness of Turkey
• Turkey as (not) a geographical part of Europe
• Turkey as (not) a historical and cultural part of Europe
• Westernisation/Europeanisation Process in Turkey
• From the Era of the Ottoman Empire to the Foundation of the Turkish Republic
• Reforms under the Rule of Sultan Selim III – Nizam-i Jedid (1789-1907)
• Reforms under the Rule of Sultan Mahmut II (1785-1839)
• Reforms in the Era of Tanzimat (1839-1871)
• Military Reforms
• Reforms in the Central Bureaucracy
• Reforms the Judicial Affairs and Secular Laws
• Secular Education in the Era of Tanzimat
• Cultural Changes in the Era of Tanzimat
• Young Turks Era: Transition from Ottoman- to Turkish Nationalism (1908-1918)
• Reforms in the Turkish Republic under the Rule of Atatürk (1922-1938)
• Reforms after the Helsinki Phase (1999-2009)
• Turkey Between Orient and Occident
• Political Culture in Turkey from Atatürk to Erdoğan
• Intercultural Dialogue Between Turkey and Europe and the European Cultural Programmes which Turkey takes part in

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This master’s thesis examines the historical background and cultural identity of Turkey in relation to its place within Europe. It seeks to understand the ongoing debate surrounding Turkey’s position and explores the concept of “Europeanness” itself.
• Defining “Europeanness”: The thesis analyzes different perspectives on what constitutes “Europeanness,” examining both historical and contemporary interpretations.
• Turkey’s Cultural Identity: The paper delves into the historical and cultural context of Turkey, tracing its relationship to European identity and the process of Westernization and Europeanization within Turkish society.
• Inclusion and Exclusion: The thesis explores the dynamic concepts of “inclusion” and “exclusion” as they relate to Turkey’s position in Europe, considering the impact of these concepts on Turkish identity.
• Intercultural Dialogue: The work investigates the ongoing dialogue between Turkey and Europe, highlighting European cultural programs and initiatives that Turkey participates in.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the thesis, introducing the central question of whether Turkey is a European country. It begins by defining “Europeanness” and outlining the different perspectives on the issue. The chapter concludes by outlining the structure and objectives of the thesis.
• Europeanness: This chapter explores the multifaceted nature of “Europeanness.” It examines various definitions of Europe and European identity, analyzing both substantialist and constructivist approaches. The chapter also delves into the complexities of European identity in connection with European culture and its challenges, exploring the concepts of inclusion, exclusion, and multiple identities.
• Europeanness of Turkey: This chapter examines Turkey’s relationship to European identity. It addresses the ongoing debate surrounding Turkey’s geographical and historical position within Europe. The chapter then explores the process of Westernization and Europeanization in Turkey, analyzing various reforms from the Ottoman Empire to the present day.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The primary focus of this thesis is on Turkey's cultural identity and its relation to Europe. It explores concepts such as Europeanness, identity, Westernization, Europeanization, inclusion, exclusion, and intercultural dialogue. The thesis draws from historical analysis of Turkey's cultural and political development, examining key periods and figures such as the Ottoman Empire, the Tanzimat era, and the reforms of Atatürk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Turkey considered a European country?

The answer depends on whether "Europeanness" is defined by historical-religious roots or a commitment to universal values like democracy and human rights. Historically, Turkey is a successor to empires that shaped Europe.

What is the constructivist view of European identity?

Constructivists define Europeanness as a syncretic commitment to European principles and values, rather than just geographical or religious heritage.

What was the Tanzimat era in Turkish history?

The Tanzimat era (1839-1871) was a period of significant reforms in the Ottoman Empire, including military, judicial, and educational changes aimed at Westernization.

How did Atatürk influence Turkish identity?

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk led radical reforms from 1922-1938 to transform Turkey into a secular, modern nation-state aligned with Western principles.

What role does intercultural dialogue play between Turkey and the EU?

Intercultural dialogue is facilitated through cultural programs and initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between Turkey's "Orient and Occident" identity and European culture.