Major: Argumentation and Conflict Studies (Muzakere ve Çatışma Çalışmaları)
Program Overview
An interdisciplinary program that explores the art of persuasion, negotiation, and conflict resolution from philosophical, psychological, legal, and political perspectives. Combines rhetoric, critical thinking, mediation, and communication strategies to prepare graduates for careers in law, diplomacy, business, journalism, and academia in Turkey and globally.
Key Learning Objectives
- Master classical and modern theories of argumentation (Aristotle, Toulmin, Habermas).
- Learn persuasion techniques (ethos, pathos, logos).
- Gain expertise in conflict analysis and resolution.
- Develop skills in negotiation, mediation, and dialogue facilitation.
- Understand the psychology of conflict (bias, emotion, power dynamics).
- Explore legal and political argumentation (debates, courtroom rhetoric).
- Apply critical thinking and logical reasoning to real-world disputes.
Core Courses
- Introduction to Argumentation
- History, theories, and structures of argument (deductive, inductive, abductive).
- Classical Rhetoric
- Aristotle’s Rhetoric, Cicero, and Quintilian.
- Modern Argumentation Theory
- Toulmin model, pragma-dialectics, and informal logic.
- Conflict Analysis and Resolution
- Causes, escalation, and de-escalation of conflicts.
- Negotiation and Mediation
- Harvard Negotiation Project, interest-based bargaining, and win-win strategies.
- Psychology of Conflict
- Cognitive biases, emotional triggers, and group dynamics.
- Legal Argumentation
- Courtroom rhetoric, legal writing, and case analysis.
- Political Debate and Public Speaking
- Persuasive speech, debate formats, and rhetorical devices.
- Digital Argumentation
- Social media, misinformation, and online discourse.
- Ethics of Argumentation
- Fallacies, manipulation, and ethical persuasion.
- Case Studies in Conflict Resolution
- International disputes, workplace conflicts, and community mediation.
- Practicum in Argumentation and Mediation
- Simulated debates, negotiations, or real-world mediation cases.
- Capstone Project
- Write a thesis on argumentation theory, design a conflict resolution program, or analyze a real-world dispute.
Assessment Methods
- Debate performances and rhetorical analysis
- Conflict resolution simulations and case studies
- Research papers on argumentation theories or conflict cases
- Mediation role-plays and evaluations
- Capstone project presentations
Tools & Resources
- Software: Debate analysis tools, mediation software (e.g., Modria), presentation tools (Prezi, Canva)
- Databases: Academic journals (JSTOR, Project MUSE), UN/OSCE conflict resolution reports
- Books:
- The Uses of Argument by Stephen Toulmin
- Getting to Yes by Fisher, Ury, and Patton
- Rhetoric by Aristotle
- The Art of Always Being Right by Arthur Schopenhauer
Prerequisites
- Interest in debate, law, psychology, or international relations.
- Strong critical thinking and communication skills required.
Program Duration
- 4 years (bachelor’s) or 1–2 years (master’s).
Certifications (Optional)
- Certified Mediator (Turkish Ministry of Justice or international bodies)
- Certified Negotiation Expert (e.g., from Harvard Negotiation Project)
- Public Speaking Certification (e.g., Toastmasters)
Career Paths
- Mediator/Conflict Resolver (courts, NGOs, corporations)
- Lawyer/Legal Advisor (specializing in dispute resolution)
- Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Negotiation Consultant (business, politics, international relations)
- Debate Coach (schools, universities, debate societies)
- Public Speaker/Political Strategist (media, think tanks)
- HR Specialist (Conflict Management) (corporations, public sector)
- Journalist (Opinion/Analysis) (media outlets)
- Academic/Researcher (universities, research institutes)
- Policy Advisor (government, international organizations)
Why This Major?
Turkey’s complex social, political, and legal landscape (e.g., regional conflicts, workplace disputes, political debates) creates high demand for experts in argumentation and conflict resolution. This program provides analytical and practical training to navigate disputes, craft persuasive arguments, and foster dialogue. Ideal for those passionate about resolving conflicts, shaping opinions, and influencing decisions.
