Abstract:

Recent research shows that polarization trends are on the rise in Turkey (Konda 2010; AM 2014; Erdo 2016; Turkey Research Center of Kadir Has University 2017). There are different patterns of polarization in Turkish social and political structure, while its consequences reveal themselves in the political rhetoric, media discourse and voting behavior.
To date, academic attention in social sciences remains inadequate with regard to the research of polarization and its underlying factors in Turkey. Therefore, to be able to assess the impact of polarization on the lives of Turkish citizens, the research community may need to focus on the role of different variables influencing the public opinion on this issue. Accordingly, the current study seeks to fill the gap in the social sciences literature in English on social and
political trends in Turkey which may be perceived to be very different by other nations. The data gathered with this research opinion regarding current and potential issues in Turkey, but will also guide policymakers in shaping the public policies.