An evaluation of the sociological manifestations of contemporary Alawites in Turkey and their problems

Abstract

Alawites is known mainly for its religions identity among other factors. This religious dimension has been, and still is, subjected to transformations/changes. As a folk religiosity the Turkish Alewites still experiences transformations in accordance to the social fluctuations affected by domestic migrations, urbanization, and leading economical, political and ideological tendencies. The status of Alawi religious leaders, the form of Alawi community organisation, the types of religiosity in daily life, the representation of religiosity and the demands of the Alawi communities are the main fields in which these transformations are acutely observed