Abstract:

In this study Erol Güngör's understanding of nationalism is scrutinized. Within this study, where, the understanding of nationalism in theories of nationalism developed by Erol Güngör, has been placed, is discussed and Güngör's culture oriented understanding of sociological nationalism is studied. Besides theoratical basics of Güngör's understanding of nationalism; relevance of this understanding with different discourses of nationalism (official, Anatolian, Turkist, nationalist) in Turkey is also tackled. In the study, fact of culture which is in the focus of Güngör's understanding of nationalism is underscored. While Güngör keeps biological, ethnical and racial emphasises relatively yet in the background; with which facts he featured the Turkish culture that he had accepted as powerful, inclusive and homogenious throughout history is discussed. Fact of cultural unity which Güngör sees as a fundemental element is assessed with a historical perspective. Views of the author about the Turkish culture and social structure are compared with the views of Ziya Gökalp and his followers about similar issues and unique aspects of Güngör's understanding of nationalism is featured.

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