Abstract
This chapter analyses Turkey’s soft power in the Middle East through its export of soap operas to the region. It first focuses on the rationale behind Turkey’s shift from the use of hard power to the use of “soft power” in the Middle East. In particular, the author examines the key elements of the “strategic depth” theory, or the so-called Davutoglu doctrine, and shows how a new vision for Turkey’s international role and cultural attractiveness underlies Turkey’s soft power in the region. Then, the paper examines one tool used to project Turkey’s soft power in the Middle East: the export of soap operas (diziler). Finally, this chapter offers an assessment of the real impact of Turkish soap operas in the Middle East; it argues that while soap operas have won the hearts and minds of the Arab populations, they have nevertheless failed to increase Turkey’s actual power capacity in the region.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
