The Positions of Turkish Intellectuals on the Borders of the Public Zone through the Headscarf Discussions in Turkey since the 1980s

Bc. Ali Türünz, Ph.D.

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The thesis will deal with the positions of Turkish intellectuals on the headscarf discussions in the public zone from the 1980s. The thesis will include the fundamental ideas of Bauman’s definition of intellectuals as “legislators” and “interpreters”, Mannheim’s “unattached” intellectual in comparison with Gramsci’s “organic” intellectual. The general background for the formation and the character of the Turkish public sphere and the problematization (ban) of the headscarf in public zone will be delineated. The counterparts of these intellectual positions will be sought in the discourse of Turkish newspapers such as, Zaman (Islamist), Cumhuriyet (Kemalist-Secular) and Bianet (human rights activist- libertarian). The thesis then seeks to investigate the historical and structural circumstances that have made it possible or difficult for the Turkish intellectuals to enter public discussion on the issue.

Keywords

Turkish intellectuals, headscarf discussions, Bauman's legislators and interpretors, Gramsci's organic intellectuals, Mannheim's unattached intellectuals

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 11. 6. 2008

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 26. 1. 2009
• Supervisor: doc. PhDr. Ing. Radim Marada, Ph.D.

Masaryk University

Faculty of Social Studies

Master programme / field:
Sociology / Sociology (Eng.)