The History of the Social Constructions of Dönmes (Converts)*

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I have looked at the publication cycles of conspiracy theories and neutral accounts about the same group to understand the reasons behind their spread. The findings suggest that the fluid identity of Dönmes makes them stranger figures, in a sociological sense, creates public mistrust and encourages conspiratorial explanations. Moreover, the conspiracy theories are also fed by the ontological insecurities of Turkish politics.

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