ACMCU Luncheon Briefing: Religion and Politics in Turkey Today
Professor Kalin discussed Turkey’s history as the seat of the last Islamic Caliphate, as well as its experience as the most democratic Muslim country which has been able to incorporate its Islamic heritage within its democratic process, making it a special focus of attention in the Muslim world and beyond. He discussed how in the last two decades, Turkey has been undergoing important changes, notably the emergence of a new elite with new associations and identity claims who challenges many aspects of Turkish politics, including definitions of secularism and the place of religion in society.
At the same time, Turkey's cultural reach has been expanding in the Arab world and other Muslim countries, thus raising the question of whether Turkey's current debates will also have an impact beyond its borders. Dr. Kalin offered insights as to the likely direction in which Turkey's current debate will develop, as well as into their broader ramifications.