Turkey at the Crossroads
June 9, 2012
The Republic of Turkey straddles Europe and Asia, playing an important role in two continents, with its influence reaching far beyond the region. We’re excited to explore the country’s history from its Ottoman roots up to the present day, and to reflect on Turkey’s role as a cultural trendsetter of the Muslim World. Cemil Aydin, new to UNC’s History Department, will shed light on the history of the Ottoman Empire, illuminating the Empire’s vibrant cultural and social history that belies the Western stereotype of it as “The Sick Man of Europe.” Geographer Banu Gökariksel will show us how the nation’s consumer landscape has responded to the rise of political Islam, and reveal the tensions between secular and visible Muslim identities. Historian Sarah Shields will discuss Turkey’s new tourist infrastructure, which hopes to redefine the country for a broad audience, emphasizing its natural features, ancient history, and multi-religious past. In the panel session, our speakers will appraise Turkey’s role in the world in light of recent events. At this crossroads, what options are open to Turkey? If it serves as a bridge between East and West, how can Turks and Turkey be sure that the bridge isn’t a bridge to nowhere? Join us at this one-day seminar to find out more.
Topics and Speakers
Turkey’s Ottoman Past
Cemil Aydin, Associate Professor of History
The Cultural Geography of Turkey
Banu Gökariksel, Associate Professor of Geography
Branding Turkey: Tourism and Representation
Sarah Shields, Bowman and Gordon Gray Distinguished Term Professor of History
Turkey at the Crossroads
A panel discussion with our speakers
Time and Cost
9:15 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. Saturday, June 9, 2012. The tuition is $125 ($110 by May 23). Tuition for teachers is $62.50 ($55 by May 23). 10 contact hours for 1 unit of renewal credit. The optional lunch is $15.00.
For information about lodging click here.
Co-Sponsored by the General Alumni Association.
For information about GAA discounts and other scholarships available to Humanities Program participants, click here.