HISTORICAL CRITIQUE OF TURKISH-ISLAMIC SOCIOLOGY

Turkish-Islamic sociology emerges as a distinct scientific discipline rooted in the unique cultural and religious heritage of Turkish and Islamic civilizations. Unlike Western sociological paradigms, which dominate the global academic landscape, this field reflects a synthesis of traditional values and modern sociological inquiry. Its historical trajectory spans from the social structures of the Ottoman Empire through the sweeping modernization reforms of the Turkish Republic, marking a continuous negotiation between past legacies and present realities. Central to Turkish-Islamic sociology is the exploration of the formation of knowledge, the reproduction of culture, and the social functions of religion. These elements are intertwined with the internal dynamics of society, producing both tensions and creative syntheses that shape social life. This discipline insists on critically confronting Western methodological frameworks, advocating for an approach that respects and incorporates the unique social, cultural, and religious particularities of the Turkish-Islamic context. Ultimately, Turkish-Islamic sociology strives to bridge the wisdom inherited from history with the evolving demands of contemporary society. By doing so, it seeks not only to preserve cultural identity but also to provide meaningful insights into the complexities of modern social life. This dual focus enables the discipline to contribute a nuanced understanding of society that transcends mere imitation of Western models, fostering an authentic and dynamic sociological perspective.