A sociological analysis of Honor Crimes in Turkey

Abstract

This study attempts to delineate the meaning of an important social
concept/value, that of “honor”, in Turkey and lesser developed Mediterranean
countries. It aims to show that “honor” has a basic function in hierarchic
societies. It serves to preserve and perpetuate the present stratified order of
the society.
Honor by no means is perceived as a homogenous value. It has a differential
meaning among men and women and among different social classes, hence
varying demands and expectations are attached to it by the society. This
difference was found to account for the differential behavioral patterns found
among men and women and different social classes vis à vis cases of crime
involving matters of honor.
Proof for these assertions are provided by the offenders’ responses to
the act of homicide which they have been involved. The most interesting finding
that accentuates the differential perception and the socialisation process among
varying social strata is the suicidal tendency of the middle class offenders after
an act of homicide. This finding begs a new terminology which was coined as
the “extended honor crime”.