The ‘Mankurts’ of Turkey
Nationalism, conservativism and right-wing politics in general have always been nativist in Turkey. But recently, they are on the rise along with xenophobia, anti-Westernism and anti-intellectualism. All societies in times of turmoil seek refuge in authoritarianism, always search for unity and become skeptical of domestic and foreign enemies. Anti-intellectualism is an essential aspect of authoritarianism, since intellectuals are perceived as the enemies of stability as long as they refuse conformism and defend freedoms and the right to difference and dissent. In this respect, Turkey’s story is no different than other epochs and examples of swings toward authoritarianism.
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