PSIR 327, Fall 2019

Department of Political Science and International Relations

Instructor: Dr. Gökser Gökçay

Office: Main Campus A Block 325B

Lecture: Thursday 08:40–11:30, A 303

Office Hours: Tuesday 10:00−12:00 or by appointment via email

📒 Course Description

In this course, we will assess the central themes, events, people, political movements, parties and ideologies in Turkish political life. The aim of this course is to gain knowledge about these political movements and thoughts without taking sides. Our purpose is to analyze them critically. The course is planned to extend to two terms. In this first term, we will begin with the political movements in the last century of the Ottoman Empire and end with the 27 May 1960 coup d’état. We will focus on the emergence of political movements and parties in the Ottoman State, the establishment of the Republic, the Single Party Regime, the introduction of the multi-party regime and its interruption by the military control.

🗝 Course Objectives

<aside> 📌 After taking this course, students are expected to:

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possess good knowledge and understanding of the conditons that led to the Turkish Revolution and compare it with the Ottoman legacy,
understand the main reforms and transformations in the Early Republican Period,
assess the political structure during the Single Party Period,
analyze the sources and consequences of the return to multi-party regime,
evaluate the Democrat party period and its relations with the opposition,
understand the causes of the 27 May 1960 coup d'etat and discuss its results.

📝 Instructional Procedures

First half of each week’s class will be dedicated to the lectures by the instructor. In the second half, students will discuss the respective week’s topic using their readings and activities. Since class participation is an important part of students’ grading scheme, students are highly encouraged to ask and answer questions during the classes. The instructor will make use of multimedia, simulations and role playing to improve the lectures and transform them into a mutual exchange of knowledge and opinions.

📬 Communication with the Instructor

If you need to discuss any matters related to the course or any other related matter, do not hesitate to stop by during the office hours of the instructor on Tuesdays between 10:00 and 12:00. If you cannot make it to the office hours of the instructor, please send an email to the instructor and ask for an appointment.

📆 Course Schedule

<aside> 📌 Below is the ideal schedule for this semester. Changes or modifications may occur, for a variety of reasons. We will discuss and make changes if the need arises.

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