Writer: Rasim Ozan Kütahyalı
Source: Taraf
Title: ['Taraf']
Date: 2008-08-10

Traits: - Consistency: Rasim Ozan Kütahyalı's column shows a high level of consistency in critiquing the ideological shift of the educated urban middle class in Turkey. He maintains a clear stance throughout the article, emphasizing the paradoxes he observes. - Emotionality: The tone of the column is moderately provocative. Kütahyalı uses strong language to describe the “fascist mentality” and “mental crisis” of the LAST (Laik yaşam tarzına sahip Sünni Türk) middle class, but his arguments are presented in a structured manner, indicating a controlled level of emotionality. - Credibility: The column appears to be fact-based to a certain extent, as Kütahyalı references specific behaviors and attitudes of the LAST middle class. However, his use of terms like “fascist” and “bigot” may suggest a degree of hyperbole, which could affect the perceived credibility.

Affiliations: - LAST (Laik yaşam tarzına sahip Sünni Türk) ortasınıfları: Kütahyalı criticizes this group for their ideological shift and their resistance to a more democratic and liberal transformation. The relationship seems to be critical and possibly antagonistic. - AKP (Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi): The column suggests that despite economic benefits from AKP policies, the LAST middle class still opposes the party due to identity-related reasons. The relationship appears to be one of indirect criticism. - Taraf Gazetesi: Kütahyalı positions Taraf as a “heretic” symbol in the eyes of the LAST middle class, especially after the Ergenekon process. This suggests a possible alignment with Taraf's editorial stance. - CUMOK (Cumhuriyet okuru): Mentioned as a real group with its own community and merchandise, Kütahyalı uses it to illustrate the inward-looking and bigoted nature of the LAST middle class. The relationship appears to be observational and critical. - Gökhan Özgün: Referenced as someone who experienced social ostracism due to his association with Taraf. This suggests a sympathetic relationship with Özgün and possibly a shared perspective on the issues discussed. - Doğan Medyası: Mentioned as a previous source of media consumption for the LAST middle class, indicating a possible shift in media preferences. The relationship is noted as a point of comparison. - ABD (Amerika Birleşik Devletleri): Mentioned as a country where the LAST middle class wants their children to study despite their current animosity towards it. This indicates a complex relationship, where educational aspirations conflict with ideological stances.

Agenda: - Kütahyalı appears to be pushing a narrative that critiques the ideological rigidity and paradoxical behavior of the educated urban middle class in Turkey. He highlights their resistance to change and their internal contradictions, particularly in their aspirations for their children. - The column could be seen as an attempt to expose the irrational fears and ideological shifts within the LAST middle class, possibly to encourage a broader societal discussion on these issues. - There is a suggestion of advocating for a more open and globally integrated perspective, as reflected in the changing attitudes of the children of the LAST middle class.

Trustworthiness: - The column's trustworthiness could be rated as moderate. While Kütahyalı provides specific examples and observations, the use of strong language and possible hyperbole may affect the perception of objectivity. The intent to critique and possibly influence public opinion is evident, but the factual basis of his arguments lends some credibility.