Embedded Neopatrimonialism: Patriarchy and Democracy in Turkey

This article argues that patriarchal discourses can play a legitimizing role for the undemocratic elements of regimes. It focuses on neopatrimonial regimes in contemporary politics, which create impediments to democracy. Showing neopatrimonialism’s link to patriarchal discourses, the study highlights the need to situate neopatrimonialism beyond its dominant contemporary usage as material exchange between the ruler and the ruled for political support. The Turkish case is analyzed to show how neopatrimonial acts of politicians are justified with a patriarchal discourse that is paternalistic and serves to reinforce personalistic rule, delegitimize opposition, and suppress pluralism.