Globalization, transformation of the state / society complex and the rising of transnational capital in Turkey: The case of Koç Holding

In this study I put forward the idea that the capitalist system today is more transnational than that of a hundred years ago. By virtue of such premise, in chapter one I introduce and explain the key concepts like ?transnational capitalist class? (TCC), ?transnationalisation of the state? and ?transnational historic bloc.? This chapter also underscores the fundamental arguments of a transnational historical materialist framework. Here, I analyze some certain patterns of ongoing local and global rivalries which are taking place among diverse fractions of capitalist class and the great powers of the capitalist system. In this respect, while approaching to the global political economy, I primarily draw upon the concept of ?transnational and systemic rivalries? developed by Kees van der Pijl.In the second chapter of this work, I attempt to explain some other concepts frequently used in the study such as ?capitalist class?, ?class consciousness? and ?class fractions.? This part deals with the transnational phenomenon and the TCC formation processes all around the world. In this sense, I specify the conditions that gave contemporary capitalism its current transnational aspect. Following structural and superstrucural advances can also be conceived as the empirical indicators of a TCC formation: 1) The spread of transnational company (TNC) affiliates, 2) The sharp rise in foreign direct investments (FDIs), 3) The phenomenal increase in cross-border mergers & acquisitions (M&As), 4) The increase in transnational strategic alliances of all sort, 5) The increasing transnational Interlocking of boards of directorates and 6) The increasing salience of peak private forums of transnational business.The third and fourth chapters of this work will basicly adopt and examine those conditions for Turkish economy, in general, and for Koç Holding case, in particular. The basic concern here is to understand whether the necessary conditions required for TCC formation exist in Turkey or not. Our findings strongly support the idea that Turkey?s insistent integration process into the Lockean West and the formation of a Turkish transnational capitalist class are two intimately involved processes. Dynamic transnational capital groups like Koç Holding are the most important evidences on the existence of TCC in Turkey.