Modernleşme ve Jeopolitik Ekseninde Doğu Sorunu
Eastern Problem on the Axis of Modernization and Geopolitics

Summary/Abstract: Diplomatic historians conceptualized the Eastern Question as a rivalry which takes its roots from the religious differences between Ottoman Empire and Europe. According to this perspective, the Eastern Question is the name of the company among the “Great Powers” to disband the Ottoman State from its territories. However, in contrast to this general understanding, the question was about the perpetuation of the Ottoman State instead of its abolishment. This assertion does not mean that there were no patterns of enmity between the Ottomans and the European states. It is to claim that policies were shaped by the interests of the states, and the aforementioned enmity and amity are irrelevant to the heart of the Eastern Question. Another hypothesis of the article is that the Eastern Question is not an issue about the 19th century diplomatic history and balance of power relations only; it is also an issue of westernization-modernization as first recognized by Arnold Toynbee. In this context, firstly some general approaches to the Eastern Question are presented. Secondly, the policies of Russia and England against the “Question” were examined in periodical manner. Thirdly, it is argued that the “Question” was not solved simply by the demise of the Ottoman Empire, but it is settled by the will of Turkish Republic with its establishment. Finally, the Eastern Question is analyzed in relation to the issue of westernization-modernization, and in this framework, it is argued whether a new Eastern Question is about to put on the agenda in the contemporary era.

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