Conservatism and Turkey: Case of Motherland Party

Abstract

Conservative ideology which is a modern movement as opposed to Western modernisation emerged in the 18th century. Conservatism has been reshaped by various interpretations in different countries; states and the societies has been highly affected by this ideology. The concept of conservatism had an impact on politics and the society in the last period of Ottoman Empire which is not familiar to the West countries practices. Even the studies about conservatism has not been considered crucial for a long time, the emergence of Motherland Party and the Justice and Development Party which define their political view as democratic conservatism in Turkish political life have increased the number studies dramatically related to conservatism. In this study firstly, definitions and the characteristics of conservatism will be scrutinized according to different academicians. Furthermore, the fundamental principles of conservatism are examined and evaluated in detail. Lastly, how conservatism emerged in Turkey and what are differences and the similarities between Turkey and the West in case of conservatism will be analysed in dept. In the qualitative part of the study, the concept of conservatism will be discussed in case of Turgut OZAL who was the founder of the Motherland Party in Turkey. On the other hand, the common points of Motherland Party and Development and Justice party in terms of parties programs and leaders discourses will be put forth.