MUSIC, POLITICS & PHILOSOPHY; HOW MUSIC IS PERCEIVED AS A POLITICAL TOOL

The original article was published on April 4, 2022. https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/japss/article/1090338

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Abstract

Music is used by politicians as means to reach the masses by conveying succinctly their message and boosting their images. The state also uses music to preserve some of its memories as well. However, music and musicians have suffered at the hands of politicians when the music turns to criticize politicians or the standard norms in the state or society. Thus, Music can be either an ideological tool in the hands of the state or a symbol of critique that incurs state oppression. Historically, different examples show how important role music can play in the dissolution and collapse of a political organization as well as its establishment and construction. From Plato, More, Campanella to Khomeini, philosophers, thinkers, rulers, and politicians mention the significance of music in statehood. In this study, it is argued that this view can be seen as a projection of totalitarian thought within the historical line mentioned. In this context, although music is seen as a harmless act that is essentially non-political, depending on the preference of the individual or group, and a harmless act that is not inherently political, some thinkers consider it a disruptive act that can disrupt the social order and harmony, and encourage people's indifference or disobedience to political power, or even rebellion, therefore, it is perceived as a phenomenon that should be controlled and censored.

Keywords

• Music
• Politics
• Censor
• Philosophy & State

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