Xenophobia and the Other: An Exploration through Turkish Lenses

Delving into the heart of human prejudice, understanding xenophobia – that chilling fear of the unknown and different – requires a nuanced lens, one capable of dissecting its complex origins and consequences. Enter Ahmet Ünlü’s profound sociological study “Xenophobia and the Other” – a captivating exploration that transcends geographical boundaries to illuminate the universal nature of this deeply human struggle.

Published in 2017 by İstanbul Bilgi Üniversitesi Yayınları, Ünlü’s work stands as a testament to rigorous scholarship. Drawing upon extensive fieldwork conducted across diverse Turkish communities, the book meticulously analyzes how historical narratives, socio-economic disparities, and political rhetoric contribute to the fertile ground where xenophobia takes root.

The book’s title itself invites contemplation: “Xenophobia and the Other.” The deliberate capitalization of “Other” emphasizes the construction of difference – a potent tool wielded by those seeking to maintain power or reinforce existing social hierarchies.

Unpacking the Layers of Fear

Ünlü masterfully deconstructs xenophobia, unveiling its multifaceted nature through a series of compelling case studies and insightful theoretical frameworks. He explores:

• The Historical Roots: Tracing xenophobic tendencies in Turkey back to its Ottoman legacy, Ünlü reveals how centuries-old anxieties surrounding the “other” have persisted through modernization and into the present day.

• The Socio-Economic Landscape: The author analyzes how competition for resources, jobs, and social standing can fuel tensions between different cultural groups, leading to the scapegoating of minorities or immigrants.

• The Role of Political Rhetoric: With a keen eye for detail, Ünlü dissects how political leaders often exploit xenophobic sentiments to consolidate power or advance their agendas, manipulating public fears and anxieties for personal gain.

A Tapestry of Voices

One of the most compelling aspects of “Xenophobia and the Other” is its commitment to presenting diverse perspectives. Through interviews with Turkish citizens from various social strata – shopkeepers, university students, religious leaders, and political activists – Ünlü captures the complexities and contradictions inherent in societal attitudes towards difference.

We encounter individuals wrestling with internalized prejudices, grappling with conflicting notions of national identity and belonging. Others emerge as powerful advocates for inclusion and tolerance, challenging xenophobic stereotypes and advocating for a more just and equitable society.

A Call to Action

While “Xenophobia and the Other” paints a sobering portrait of the pervasiveness of prejudice in contemporary Turkey, it is far from a nihilistic treatise. Rather, Ünlü concludes his work with a powerful call to action, urging readers to engage in critical self-reflection and actively dismantle the structures that perpetuate xenophobia.

He emphasizes the importance of fostering empathy, understanding, and cross-cultural dialogue as essential tools for building bridges between communities and creating a more inclusive future.

Production Features

Published in Turkish with an English abstract and table of contents, “Xenophobia and the Other” is accessible to both local and international audiences interested in exploring the complexities of prejudice and identity politics in Turkey. The book’s scholarly tone is balanced by Ünlü’s engaging writing style, making it a thought-provoking and insightful read for academics, students, and general readers alike.

Beyond the Text: A Societal Imperative

Ünlü’s “Xenophobia and the Other” serves as a timely reminder that confronting xenophobia is not merely an academic exercise. It is a crucial societal imperative, demanding our collective attention and commitment to building a world where difference is celebrated rather than feared.

Let this book be a catalyst for conversation, reflection, and ultimately, action – a testament to the enduring power of human empathy and the transformative potential of understanding.