Understanding the nuclear energy debate in Turkey : internal and external contexts
Author
Udum, Şebnem
Advisor
Karaosmanoğlu, Ali
Date
2010Publisher
Bilkent University
Language
English
Type
ThesisItem Usage Stats
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Abstract
Nuclear energy generation in Turkey has sparked debates on its relevance and
necessity for energy security policy. As a developing country, Turkey chose nuclear
energy to address both to sustainability and development needs. The decision is
challenged on the basis of “threats” to life, environment and security. The arguments
and prescriptions of the contending sides render two meanings for nuclear energy:
“asset” and “threat.” This dissertation looks into the construction of these two
meanings that prescribe nuclear energy either as the appropriate policy choice or an
imminent threat to human life and environment. The respective arguments are shaped
by the international norms on nuclear nonproliferation, environmentalism and antinuclearism.
This study analyzes the contending discourses in order to find how the
opposing meanings of nuclear energy are produced and sustained. It finds that the
former meaning and policy prescription is formed with reference to the Realist
conception of state power and security. It is Critical Theory, Marxism and Green
Political Theory which account for the second meaning of nuclear energy. The
“conflict” is not only at the practical but also at the theoretical level. The dissertation
argues that this conflict can be addressed through a critical engagement of the parties
concerned. It seeks to find common grounds on which the parties can talk. The
analysis of the discourses reveals these common grounds where the two sides can
find points of reconciliation and formulate a sound energy security policy