İsmail Beşikçi is a prominent Turkish sociologist and writer, known for his extensive research on the Kurdish people and their culture. Born in 1939, he gained recognition for his critical views on the Turkish government's policies towards the Kurdish population. His work has often focused on issues of identity, ethnicity, and social justice. Throughout his career, Beşikçi faced significant political challenges, including imprisonment due to his outspoken views. His books and articles have contributed to the understanding of Kurdish rights and the complexities of Turkish-Kurdish relations. Beşikçi remains an influential figure in discussions about minority rights in Turkey.