MES380.9: Greek and Turkish Relations in the Aegean

MES380.9: Greek and Turkish Relations in the Aegean

Analysis of the dilemmas of the transition to nation-state with respect to ethnic conflict and clash of two nationalities in the Aegean. Considering political, economic and social developments of the 19th century, this course aims to analyze the role of the western Anatolia in the process of integration of the Ottoman Empire into the world capitalist economy and in absorbing and transforming western ideas and pattern of life to the empire. (GEP 0503)

MES380.8: Islamic Philosophy

This course is designed to present a solid introduction to the major thinkers in classical Islamic philosophy, with emphasis placed on developing a properly philosophical understanding of the issues and arguments. Topics include: reason and revelation (can the human mind reach the truth without the aid of revelation?); the existence of God; creation, eternity, and infinity; causality and miracles; human nature and knowledge; the nature of ethical obligations; and the constitution of the ideal political state. SU students may not earn credit for both this course and PHI 308. (GEP 0804)

MES380.6: Sociology of the Middle East

Course covers the study of the ethnic origins of Middle Eastern people and the historical roots of Middle Eastern culture. Moreover, it focuses on kinship systems and the family; patron-client relationships; and the “honor-and-shame” complex.

MES380.42: Globalization and Istanbul

This course offers an introduction to the literature on neoliberalism, globalization and global cities. A particular emphasis is placed on the situation of Istanbul during the neoliberal globalization process. (GEP 2030)

MES380.3: Turkish-Greek Relations

Course seeks to provide an account of Turkish-Greek relations. Begins by looking at the experience of cohabitation under Ottoman rule and the rise of Greek and Turkish nationalisms. Traces the evolution of relations from the Ataturk/Venizelos period through the Cold War up until the 1990s. Also examines the impact of domestic developments in each country on bilateral relations, the minority question, Cypress, the Aegean, and the role of the EU. (POL 3513/2513)

MES380.19: Religion and Politics

The aim of this course is to probe the relationship between religion and politics with a view to understand the impact of modernization and industrialization on the relationship. The course is composed of three parts. Part I introduces the major analytical approaches in the sociology of religion. Part II examines manifestations of the resurgence of religion in politics in different regions of the world. Part III, finally, focuses on Islam and politics, including the case of Turkey. (POLS 4321)

MES380.17: Introduction to Turkish Politics

The aim of this course is to provide students with a basic understanding of the historical background, structure, actors, ideology and dynamics of Turkish politics. The course is composed of three parts. Part I reviews Ottoman- Turkish political history from early attempts at modernization at the end of 18th century until the elections of June 2011. Part II introduces the major analytical approaches to the study of Turkish politics, and Part III focuses on issues and problems related with consolidation of democracy in Turkey. For Syracuse IR majors, this course counts as a region course (Europe) or as an IR elective. (POL 3351)

MES300.2: Democratization Theory in Comparative Perspective (Fall, Spring)

The study of political regimes (democracy and authoritarianism) has been one of the central concerns of political science. This course is designed to introduce students to these studies by first outlining the main approaches to democratization, and then contextualizing these approaches in the Middle East and Turkey. The course is composed of four modules: 1) political regime definitions; 2) approaches to democratization; 3) democracy and authoritarianism in the Middle East; 4) democracy and authoritarianism in Turkey. These modules will both help us understand the political regime dynamics in the Middle East and Turkey, and provide avenues to better evaluate and discuss current political developments in the region. Can also be registered as PSC 300.2.

MES300.1 Istanbul: Crossroad of Civilizations, Past and Present (Fall, Spring)

Required for all undergraduate students. This signature seminar provides a historical and practical overview to Istanbul as the focal point of several empires and as one of the most dynamic, complex, ever-expanding cities in the world. During this seminar students will be immersed in this city’s vast and fascinating past through cultural-historical lectures and visits to key archeological sites, ancient cisterns, monuments, and other architecture and art forms (religious and secular) that tell the story of a melding of civilizations and empires over two millennia. Throughout they will also be introduced to the ways in which locals navigate and discover its many diverse neighborhoods, cultures, and regional cuisines, providing students with the tools to further explore and learn to live in this lively cosmopolis. May also be registered as HUM/HST 300.1.

MEE380.1: Mechanical Components and Systems

This course equips students with the knowledge of basic machine elements, principles and functions of mechanical components. Design and selection methods of machine elements will be introduced, where the theories given in statics, dynamics and strength of materials will be applied. (MCH 3007)