Ziya Gökalp’s Studies on the Constitution of 1924

Abstract

A modern state was tried to be established with the liquidation of old regime together with abolition of the Sultanate, declaration of the Republic and eventually abolition of the Caliphate. The 1876 Constitution of Absolutism period and the Constitution of 1921 which was prepared in a rather narrow scope were unable to meet the needs of modern Turkey. For this reason, the preparation of a much more modern and democratic constitution was inevitable. With the declaration of the Republic, intellectuals of the period expressed their opinions and thoughts about the constitution. In this period when there were harsh discussions on constitution, it is understood with the help of the notes, related to this matter, of famous sociologist Ziya Gökalp was also in the discussion. Gökalp put forward many ideas including the American presidential system, professional representation, the necessity of appropriate laws to the Constitution, equality of men and women and many more.