Panel on “Sociological Perspective on 15th July” Held!

Istanbul Gelişim University (IGU), Faculty of Fine Arts (FFA), Department of Communication and Design organized the talk "Sociological Perspective on 15th July" on 15th July 2023 at 2:00 PM through Google Meet. The talk, moderated by Lecturer Ahmet Bikiç, included the participation of Sociologist/Academic Prof. Dr. Yasin Aktay.

During the talk, the significance of 15th July was emphasized. Prof. Dr. Yasin Aktay pointed out that when looking at 15th July from a sociological perspective, it is crucial to analyze Turkey's recent history and its political mindset.

"15th July: A Movement of Resistance and Revival"

Prof. Dr. Aktay emphasized that 15th July was a movement of resistance and revival, underlining its importance. He described the events of 15th July as a societal movement and stated, "They saw what a Turkey formed by the unity of state and people could be." Drawing comparisons with previous coups, Prof. Dr. Aktay explained that 15th July was different due to the power it derived from the grassroots and the emergence of a societal movement to defend the existing government. He then elaborated on the emergence of democracy vigils that lasted for about a month, led by the President, and stated that it indicated a political and sociological transformation where "the state is no longer the ruler of the people, but rather its servant."

Continuing his speech, he said: "Our nation has truly embraced this state because it is a state that does not look down upon its people and shares their values. As long as there is such unity between the state and people, with Allah's permission, it will prevail in this country. We witnessed this unity clearly on 15th July."

Finally, Prof. Dr. Yasin Aktay emphasized, "We are the ones who will protect ourselves against coups. We need to recognize the coup and the coup plotter because they won't come to us in the same guise." The talk concluded after the question and answer session.
We thank Sociologist and Academic Prof. Dr. Yasin Aktay for his participation.