Tensions of Turkish Identity

In one of today's New York Times editorials, the case of Orhan Pamuk - a novelist charged with the “public denigration” of Turkish society - stands to remind us of the underlining tensions of Turkish identity. Pamuk, facing up to three years in Turkish prison, has left the country. Indeed, I would say that there is a multifaceted tension of identity. There are at least three vying for attention: Islamic, secular, and nationalistic. The Islamic consciousness of Turkey longs for a strong Muslim presence and rule in the country. While, the Turkey is considered about 99% Muslim, the majority of those “Muslims” live as secularists even if they profess Islam. An Islamic identity would bring a resurgence of Islam to the table including the stronger more radical forms of Islam. This is a direct tension which would severely limit their options for joining the European Union. Then there is the secular consciousness of Turkey which I would say is the predominate view. This is the thought and lifestyle of those in the major cities and outlying areas. The impact of the West cannot be denied on this Islamic country. Its presence is everywhere, from cell-phones to McDonalds. This Western influence is what is allowing the EU to remain partially open to Turkish membership. Then there is the strong undercurrent of nationalistic consciousness. This identity can actually cut across and flow through the other two yet also remains separated. Those who strongly identify with Mustafa Kemal, the founder of the Turkish Republic, are the military and leaders of the present Turkish government. They fear the EU for what it could do to undermine the country’s Kemalist ideals. Yet, they also fear the Islamic identity for Kemal wanted a more Westernized society and almost paradoxically they fear the western secularist identity as too strong of a break from the past. Turkey is a land in tension. A country that exists between two worlds: the West and the Middle East, secularism and Islam. The next few years are defining for Turkey. If they are able to join the EU I believe a change of openness and democratic secularism will gradually influence the country, yet if they are denied membership than I believe that the option of Islamic rule will gain a stronger foothold in the country. A resolution of this tension will either strengthen Turkey or begin to erode the country. For now we can only wait and see what will happen along with Mr. Pamuk.