Turkey has a strategic position at the crossroads of several of the world's critical regional complexes, such as the Middle East, Europe, and the Caucasus. As the successor of the Ottoman Empire, one of the longest surviving empires in history, Turkey retains historical, political and cultural ties with these regions.
This course introduces students to the study of Turkish politics and foreign policy from the standpoint of political sociology, with a focus on contemporary reconfigurations of power. It provides keys to a better understanding of political developments – both domestic and international. Students will explore issues such as the regime issue, reconfigurations of the judiciary, the political economy of the hegemonic party (the Justice and Development Party), new positionings of Turkey in surrounding regions (especially the Middle East) and internationally (like in Africa), new patterns of ”soft power” and non-state actors.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Expertise on Turkish and Middle Eastern studies
2. Research design skills
3. Writing skills
4. Group discussion skills
5. Comparative tools and knowledge to think of hybrid regimes in different contexts
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS
- Strategic analysis,
- Investigation and research
- Report writing
- Reading and Preparation for Class: 24 hours a semester
- Research and Preparation for Group Work: 24 hours a semester
- Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 50 hours a semester
One research paper on Turkish society and politics (French or English): 50%
Participation: 10%