SOC 493 - History, Culture, Politics, and Society in Turkey

(3 units) CO11

Survey of the origins and development of Turkish society from the Ottoman conquest to present day Turkey, focusing on history, culture, politics, and society, with field trips in Istanbul as the focal point of this study abroad course.

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Spring and Summer

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. interpret the history of several major civilizations in Turkey from the conquest of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) to the Ottoman Empire to the modern Republic of Turkey.
2. study and explain the many diverse cultures and ethnic groups that have populated the geographic territory of the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey (from the Balkans to the Middle East to North Africa and beyond).
3. explore the intersection of several religions throughout the history of the region (from eastern orthodox Christianity to Islam and its various sects), including the role of religion in politics and secularism versus religious fundamentalism.
4. examine and interpret the nature and dynamics of the modern Turkish economy within the context of globalization and the global political economy and its impact on Turkish society.
5. evaluate Turkey’s political role in both Europe and the Middle East, including prospect for membership in the European Union and playing a greater leadership role in the Middle East.

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