In the Western Orbit: Turkish Approaches to the Study of International Relations

The article analyses the current state and development of International Relations research in Turkey, with an emphasis on the possible causes of its periphery status and the growth points for the formation of independent theoretical approaches. The author considers the features of the development of International Relations study and education and the reasons for the lack of attention given to local theories. The analysis uses o ffi cial statistical data, results of surveys, biographical pro fi les of leading Turkish researchers in International Relations, and their re fl ections on the identi fi ed problem, as well as Turkish publications in the fi eld of International Relations with theoretical novelty. The author concludes that the prospects for Russian-Turkish relations are determined, among other things, by the ability of the Turkish International Relations school to defend its independence and develop original theoretical approaches, or to begin with, adapt non-Western theories. At present, Turkey in theoretical terms still remains in the Western orbit, but demonstrates a strong political demand to overcome this dependence. The Turkish academic community has not yet overcome the phase of critical rethinking of Western-centrism; it is only preparing to show an interest in non-Western theories of International Relations, and searching for grounds for constructing theories based on their own local environment, history and culture. The underdevelopment of theoretical research in International Relations in Turkey, despite the negative in fl uence of its pro-Western dependence, provides scope for cooperation and positive integration for the Russian and Turkish academic environment. The acquaintance of Turkish researchers with Russian traditions and approaches to International Relations is essential for the successful development of Russian-Turkish relations.