Analyzing the concept of cause in the discourses of conservative leaders

Conservatism, which has developed in opposition to radical and profound changes, has evolved into a political ideology over time. Tradition, history, religion, morality, authority, and prejudice are among the dogmas present in this ideology. Symbolism is one of the prominent elements in this ideology. Symbols, serving to evoke the same imagery in the minds of individuals in society quickly and easily, play a significant role in conveying the desired goals or the overall meaning. Sometimes appearing as objects, sometimes as words, these symbols find a place in the collective memory of society. One of the symbolic concepts that has gained increased usage with the rise to power of conservative political parties in Turkish conservative politics is the concept of "cause" or "mission. Charismatic leaders who have the ability to gather large societies around them possess a following that accepts their discourse without questioning. In this context, the use of the concept of "cause" ensures that the meanings evoked by the leader in the minds of their supporters are understood without being scrutinized. This study focuses on the usage of the concept of "cause" in the speeches and expressions of charismatic leaders in the conservative political tradition in Turkey, namely Alparslan Türkeş, Devlet Bahçeli, Necmettin Erbakan, and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The examination revolves around how these leaders employ and incorporate the concept of "cause." The study is conducted using qualitative research techniques, specifically the method of historical documentation/document analysis The concept of "cause," frequently emphasized in Turkish conservative politics as a symbolic notion, represents a vision of the future that leaders aim to evoke in the minds of their supporters and is rooted in a past it seeks to embody. The cause prioritizes instilling loyalty in its members for various reasons and emphasizes not betraying the cause. Those who believe in the cause act according to a sanctified common world of commitment. These sacred bonds undergo changes based on the political doctrines developed by charismatic leaders. In these political movements shaped around leaders, accepting the meanings attributed to the cause in the minds without questioning or objecting is crucial. In the politics of Alparslan Türkeş and Devlet Bahçeli, the emphasis is on the Turkish-Islamic unity and nationalist goals, while for Necmettin Erbakan, the cause takes shape in the direction of the Islamic Unity objective. In the politics of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the cause revolves around making Turkey a democratic and self-confident state.