Homeland in the age of AI

This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI), with a specific focus on Turkey's AI transformation. It seeks to contribute to the formation of a strategic roadmap tailored to Turkey's needs. The research evaluates the economic, technological, social, and cultural benefits of AI in a systematic way, while also addressing the major legal, ethical, and philosophical concerns surrounding its development. The main argument is clear: AI presents a historic opportunity for humanity but this transformation must be guided by responsibility, foresight and ethical care. This study examines the conceptual foundations, historical development, and primary application areas of artificial intelligence. It then analyses the impact of AI on key sectors such as education, healthcare, finance, environment, justice, agriculture, transportation, and security, supported by concrete examples. Beyond its potential benefits, the study also addresses the risks AI may pose to employment, privacy, ethical boundaries, and social cohesion, drawing upon insights from prominent philosophers and scientists. Finally, AI policy frameworks are examined in comparison with Turkey's digital sovereignty strategies, leading to security-oriented perspectives and multidimensional policy recommendations. The study argues that Turkey should approach the issue of AI not only as a technological tool, but as a comprehensive development paradigm. It emphasizes the importance of building national AI capacity grounded in a "digital homeland" perspective, strengthening technological sovereignty, and establishing solid ethical, legal and philosophical foundations for AI.