The influence of western positivist thought on Turkish thinkers in 19.th century

The positivist approach which was systematized by A. Comte, had astrong influence on Turkish thinkers. Our study thoroughly emphasizes thisinfluence. In this context the main concern of thethesis is to put forth theintroduction, positive and negative influences of positivism in Turkish thoughtand the consequences that comewith it.Although it?s a problematic area as a philosophical system, positivistimpressions are substantial for Turkish thought. If one takes intoconsideration that Turkish thinkers who are influenced by positivism, are notonly philosophers but also politicians, educators and men of litereture, theimportance of this influence can be understood explicitly. Thus it reveals theimportance of th esubjectmatter of our thesis.KeyWords:1.Positivism2.Turkish Thought3.Westernization4.Contemporary Thought5.Positivist Thought