Development Of Political Science In Turkey: History And Institutional Development

Abstract

The beginnings of Political Science in Turkey can be traced to the intensifying need of the Ottoman government for well-trained civil servants. During the republic, political science began its major growth after the transition to competitive politics. Most Turkish universities today have either a Department of Public Administration or a Department of International Relations or both. Graduate programs, particularly MAs, are thriving. More recently, research centers and think tanks have begun to expand as the need for expert information and opinion has intensified. Turkish Political Science Association has existed since 1964. The discipline is expected to grow and its content and institutional organization to become more varied over time, reflecting the growing complexity of Turkish society and its needs.