In this article, zatrun.com thoroughly examines Ahmet İnsel, who was born in the Kurtuluş district of Istanbul, and embarked on a remarkable intellectual journey that shaped his life. With his roots in this vibrant city, he received his education at Galatasaray High School, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. After graduating, he expanded his horizons and pursued his undergraduate studies in the Economics Department of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University. It was during this period that his passion for economics blossomed, ultimately leading him to obtain a doctorate in the field from the same prestigious institution.
A Scholar’s Path
Since 1984, Ahmet İnsel has been an esteemed faculty member at Sorbonne University and Galatasaray University. His dedication to education and scholarship is evident in his extensive contributions. From 1990 to 1994, he served as the dean of the Faculty of Economics at Sorbonne University, followed by a role as vice rector from 1994 to 1999. In 2007, he assumed the position of head of the Economics Department at Galatasaray University in Istanbul, further solidifying his influential role within the academic community. Additionally, he has been an active member of the university’s board of directors.
Ahmet İnsel’s intellectual pursuits extend beyond the confines of academia. In a 1982, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of İletişim Yayınları (Communication Publications) and the influential socialist journal, Birikim. Today, he continues to guide the editorial board of İletişim Yayınları while actively contributing to Birikim through his insightful writings. His contributions to the field of journalism have also found platforms in renowned newspapers such as Radikal and Cumhuriyet, where he regularly penned thought-provoking articles. Additionally, his weekly segment, “Ufuk Turu,” on Açık Radyo’s program, Açık Gazete, has captivated listeners with its exploration of diverse topics.
Ahmet İnsel’s intellectual pursuits are often intertwined with his commitment to social causes. On December 15, 2008, he spearheaded the “We Apologize to Armenians” campaign, joined by Baskın Oran, Ali Bayramoğlu, Cengiz Aktar, and countless other intellectuals. This initiative aimed to foster dialogue and reconciliation surrounding historical events. Furthermore, İnsel stood among the 1,128 academics who signed the declaration of the “Academics for Peace” initiative, demanding an end to the ongoing curfews and violence in southeastern provinces of Turkey.
Literary Legacy
Beyond his academic and intellectual pursuits, Ahmet İnsel cherishes his role as a family man. He is happily married and a devoted father to two children, finding fulfillment and joy in the personal sphere of his life.
In addition to his extensive academic and journalistic contributions, Ahmet İnsel has left an indelible mark through his literary works. Some notable publications include “Le national-capitalisme autoritaire: une menace pour la dém” (2021), “Türkiye Toplumunun Bunalımı” (2019), “Bir Zümre, Bir Parti Türkiye’de Ordu” (2017), “Neo-Liberalizm: Hegemonyanın Yeni Dili” (2015), “Sosyalizm: Esasa, Ufka ve Bugüne Dair” (2010), “Ermeni Tabusu Üzerine Diyalog” (2010), and “İktisat İdeolojisinin Eleştirisi” (1993). These works showcase his intellectual depth and serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
Ahmet İnsel’s life is a tapestry woven with academic achievements, intellectual endeavors, and a steadfast commitment to social causes. From his humble beginnings in Istanbul to his esteemed positions in prestigious universities, he has emerged as a respected figure in both academia and public discourse. His vast contributions to İletişim Yayınları, Birikim, and various media outlets have enriched intellectual dialogue in Turkey and beyond. Moreover, his unwavering dedication to promoting dialogue and reconciliation exemplifies his deep-rooted belief in fostering peace and understanding. As he continues to make his mark in the realms of education, journalism, and literature, Ahmet İnsel’s journey is one that inspires and influences generations to come.
