Conspiracy Theories in Turkey: A Deep Dive into Popular Beliefs and Their Impact
Turkey has long been a hotbed of conspiracy theories, reflecting its unique geographical and cultural position. These theories range from global elite control to historical figures and events, significantly impacting the national psyche and public discourse.
Global Elite Control Theories
The notion that powerful global families, such as the Illuminati, the Knights of the Round Table, and the Rose and Cross Organization, control Turkish affairs is widely prevalent. This belief is particularly prevalent among the Turkish elite and political factions, especially against those attending Bilderberg meetings.
However, the most popular conspiracy theory in Turkey, as it is globally, centres around crypto-Jews and Freemasons. Under the current administration of Tayyip Erdogan, the theory has gained significant traction, asserting that anyone attaining high positions in Turkey is a Freemason secretly directing Turkish affairs. These Freemasons are allegedly under the control of the Jewish community.
Atatürk and Historical Conspiracies
The founder of modern Turkey, Atatürk, is also the subject of several conspiracy theories. In Turkey and the Arab world, it is widely believed that the last Ottoman Sultan commissioned and financed Atatürk to save the Ottoman Empire, only for him to betray the Sultanate and create Turkey.
Furthermore, it is claimed that Atatürk was a Jew from Thessaloniki. This theory, which finds its roots in Islamic literature, labels Atatürk as the Dajjal, an anti-Christ figure in Islamic tradition.
International Influences and Political Alliances
Theories about America and Israel are highly popular in Turkey. These theories resonate with both supporters and opponents of Erdogan. Pro-Erdogan supporters accuse him of being backed by America, while his opponents claim that Erdogan’s supporters are in fact American agents.
The escalation of these theories occurred following the 2016 coup attempt, led by the extremist Gulenist religious cult, a sect that had significant influence in Turkey’s judicial, police, and military institutions. This cult, which awaited the Mahdi, sought to oust Erdogan. The failure of this coup effort fed into broader conspiracy theories, with Erdogan being portrayed as an anti-Christ according to the cult’s narratives. Conversely, the failed coup was also accused of being a fabricated event.
Impact and Discussion
The widespread acceptance of these conspiracy theories in Turkey has profound implications for the political climate and societal discourse. They foster divisiveness and mistrust, contributing to a fragmented political landscape. Efforts to debunk these theories are often met with skepticism, as confirmation bias plays a significant role in their persistence.
Understanding these theories and their socio-political contexts is crucial for anyone seeking to engage with Turkish society or address the complex political dynamics within the country.