Uluslararası Hukuk ve Sosyal Bilim Araştırmaları Dergisi

Abstract

It is remarkable that a group with a highly effective and destructive capacity, organized systematically from the grassroots to the highest levels of the state’s critical institutions over decades, has not received adequate scholarly attention in terms of its structure, operations, and strategies. Despite this academic apathy, the limited studies available often label FETÖ (Fethullahist Terror Organization) as a 'Machiavellian' organization. However, this assessment is generally approached with a narrow interpretation of Machiavellianism, reducing it to a simplistic 'the ends justify the means' perspective. In this study, we aim to address this gap in the literature by revisiting The Prince, the classic work of Niccolò Machiavelli—widely regarded as the founder of modern political science—in light of FETÖ’s sui generis strategies and tactics. Although the central concern of this text lies in exploring the ideological affinities between FETO and Machiavellian thought, it also intermittently reflects upon the striking parallels between the personal trajectories and ultimate destinies of the organization’s leader and Niccolò Machiavelli. Furthermore, we hope to stimulate a broader intellectual discourse by encouraging a unique, critical interpretation of this nearly 500-year-old text, which is frequently cited yet rarely read in depth. Through this approach, we aim to inspire researchers to reconsider whether The Prince might, indeed, convey insights beyond conventional understanding.