"The Roots of Iraq's Rebellion" What about turkey?

Submitted by Rich McMahon (United States), Apr 13, 2004 at 14:06

Dear Dr. Pipes,
I enjoyed your article "The Roots of Iraq's Rebellion"....however, your analysis might have been more convincing had you commented on the democracy that exists today in Turkey. I understand the dynamics of Iraq and Turkey are different, still there are analogues: Turkey is a country with a predominantly Muslim population, mostly Sunnis with a significant minority of Kurds. Iraq is a predominantly Muslim country, mostly Shiites with a significant minority of Sunnis, also Kurds. Turkey has what appears to be a functional, if imperfect democratic government. Why wouldn't a democracy similar to Turkey's be an acceptable and attainable model for Iraq?

Best,

Rich McMahon

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