The Other: Which Existence is More Appealing?
French sociologist and political scientist Dominique Schnapper says, “The greatest challenge of our generation is thinking that historical man carries a universal dimension. Sociology should create itself in an inevitable tension by integrating the determinism of collective behaviors with the freedom of individuals, the relativity of cultures and social situations, and the universal dimension of the humanity condition.” She adds, “Similarly, modern society, while respecting the characteristics of people’s lives, should provide them with the opportunities to participate in universalities of scientific mind and citizenship: the historical conditions, the possibility of distinguishing the differences observed among people, modern society can lay the foundations of a paradoxical universalism: universalism aimed at human history. Isn’t modern universalism the historical universalism contributed by sociological thought?”
Schnapper’s book, “The Other Relationship / At the Heart of Sociology Thought,” allows us to re-examine the “difference” adventure and the ways of thinking about the “other.” One particular question from the book serves as an answer: “When judging the traditions and values of others, are we using our own traditions and values as a criterion; whereas, aren’t these among many others’ possible choices?”
The recent reading of the book has allowed for a revisiting of these thought-provoking questions. The character Bay Golyadkin’s musings on personality provide an enchanting description of the human condition, revealing the universal struggles that have persisted through humanity’s 350,000-year journey.
The adaptation of “The Other” into a theater play by master filmmaker Emin Alper sheds new light on the concept of doppelgangers and the complexities of human nature. The play, featuring Cem Yiğit Üzümoğlu, Erdem Şenocak, Derya Karadaş, and Gökhan Yıkılkan, brings the characters to life in a compelling way, exploring the nuances of identity and self-discovery.
With themes of dual identity, self-reflection, and the challenges of modern society, “The Other” offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. As we navigate through a world of increasing complexity and interconnectedness, the questions raised by Schnapper and Dostoyevski continue to resonate, inviting us to reflect on our own values, beliefs, and interactions with others.
In the midst of this cultural and intellectual journey, the team behind the play shares their insights into the creative process, the challenges of adaptation, and the impact of Dostoyevski’s timeless work on contemporary society. Their meticulous attention to detail, innovative approach to storytelling, and collaborative spirit have resulted in a compelling production that encourages audiences to ponder the mysteries of human nature and the complexities of the human experience.
