Capitalism, Jacobinism and International Relations: Revisiting Turkish Modernity

This book explores the concept of Jacobinism and its impact on the development of the modern world. It argues that the French Revolution created an alternative (geo)political economy that influenced other modernization projects, particularly in the Ottoman Empire and Turkey. Until the 1950s, the Ottoman/Turkish experiment with modernity was characterized by a historically specific Jacobinism, which shaped the transition to and authoritarian consolidation of capitalism in contemporary Turkey. By tracing the world historical trajectory of Jacobinism, the book offers a new understanding of the origins and development of global modernity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This book presents a groundbreaking reinterpretation of the evolution of the modern world by examining the concept of Jacobinism. It argues that the French Revolution was not merely a progression towards capitalist modernity but rather the birth of an alternative geo-political economy known as Jacobinism. Moreover, Jacobinism served as a model for other modernization endeavors, exerting a significant influence on the content and pace of global modernity both within and beyond Europe. The book delves into the trajectory of Jacobinism in the Ottoman Empire and Turkey, contending that until the 1950s, the Ottoman/Turkish experiment with modernity was characterized by a distinct form of Jacobinism rather than capitalism. By asserting this Jacobin legacy, the book offers a novel interpretation of the subsequent transition to and authoritarian consolidation of capitalism in contemporary Turkey. By tracing the global historical trajectory of Jacobinism, the book establishes a fresh perspective on the origins and development of global modernity.

Introduction:
The concept of Jacobinism has played a pivotal role in shaping the development of the modern world. While its origins can be traced back to the French Revolution, its impact extends far beyond the boundaries of Europe. This book aims to explore the global historical trajectory of Jacobinism, examining its origins, evolution, and profound effects on the world.

Origins of Jacobinism:
Jacobinism emerged as a political and economic ideology during the French Revolution in the late 18th century. It was inspired by the ideas of the Enlightenment, particularly the notion of social justice and equality. Jacobins believed in the power of the people to bring about change and advocated for a democratic, socialist, and egalitarian society.

Evolution of Jacobinism:
Over time, Jacobinism evolved and spread to various parts of the world. In the 19th century, it was particularly influential in the Latin American region, where it was adopted by various revolutionary movements. For example, in Mexico, the Jacobins played a significant role in the Mexican Revolution of 1910, which led to the establishment of a socialist government.

Global Impact of Jacobinism:
Jacobinism had a profound impact on the world, shaping the political and economic systems of many countries. It advocated for the abolition of feudalism, the establishment of universal suffrage, and the redistribution of wealth. Jacobinism also influenced the development of labor movements, women's rights, and social welfare programs.

The Ottoman/Turkish Experiment with Jacobinism:
The Ottoman Empire and Turkey were among the regions where Jacobinism was adopted and implemented. The Ottoman/Turkish experiment with Jacobinism began in the late 19th century and lasted until the 1950s. During this period, the Ottoman Empire underwent significant political and economic changes, including the introduction of a constitution, the adoption of Western-style institutions, and the expansion of industrialization.

The Transition to Capitalism:
However, the experiment with Jacobinism in the Ottoman Empire and Turkey did not end in the establishment of a socialist or communist society. Instead, it led to a gradual transition to capitalism. The introduction of free market policies, the privatization of state-owned enterprises, and the emergence of a bourgeois class led to the consolidation of capitalism in these regions.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the global historical trajectory of Jacobinism. It demonstrates that Jacobinism was not just a French phenomenon but a global movement that had a profound impact on the development of the modern world. While the experiment with Jacobinism in the Ottoman Empire and Turkey led to a transition to capitalism, its legacy continues to shape political and economic systems around the globe world. By examining the world historical trajectory of Jacobinism, we can gain a deeper understanding of the origins and development of global modernity.

ISBN-13: 9781009158350