Friday, March 16, 2007

The Importance of Emotion in Turkish-American Relations - Turkish Daily News Mar 17, 2007

The Importance of Emotion in Turkish-American Relations - Turkish Daily News Mar 17, 2007

An article by former US Consul General in Istanbul, David L. Arnett

He writes:

Practically all of the conflicts between the United States and Turkey, both past and present, can be explained by American lack of sensitivity to Turkish emotional responses and Turkish overreaction to perceived American arrogance. There is also a tendency by Turks to focus heavily on their own sense of outrage while downplaying the emotional effects of their own actions. I will draw upon a series of key historical events to demonstrate these points.

At the outset, however, I wish to avoid the irony of emotional responses elicited by an article dealing with emotional responses. This article touches upon sensitive issues that need to be brought into the open and discussed much more thoroughly in both Turkey and the United States. I raise them with the greatest of respect and genuine love for both my native country and the country that I now know has provided much of my genetic heritage.

What a great EQ statement that last one is. To read the full article, go here.

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