An Analysis of the Development of Sociology in Turkey

Abstract

This study is a theoretical examination of the progress of Turkish sociology, since it was introduced to Turkish society from the last periods of the Ottoman Empire to 2000s. The studies of sociology have demonstrated so far that Turkish sociology was a dependent social science which was especially, western-oriented by 1970s. Even today, the situation of Turkish sociology is discussed in terms of its development and methodology regarding how it can be a free and specific social science in Turkey. In particular, Turkish sociologists have been researching the theories of western in terms of confirmation or falsification by implementing to Turkish society so far. Consequently, during the study, I will explore the reason why Turkish sociology has not developed originally, while other European sociologies have developed and presented social theories for the profits of their societies. Therefore, the focus of this study is to investigate the development of sociology and its conditions at first. Secondly, it will argue Turkish sociology In respect of methodology. Since methodology is the main factor of social sciences in terms of conducting a study. Hence, during the study, I will argue the previous sociologists’ ideas and methodological understandings regarding sociological researches and the development of sociology so that It could be achieved a specific method and sociological knowledge which Turkish sociology can use in order to research and understand Turkish society.