A recent poll by Professor Yilmaz Esmer from Bahcesehir University, Turkey, aimed at identifying the behavior and preferences of the Turkish electorate in the July 22 elections, confirmed that religion was a critical element dividing the AKP and CHP electorates.

In response to a question on whether religious books or scientific findings and inventions were more helpful in understanding the world and the universe, 59% of the AKP electorate chose religious "books," while 84% of the CHP voters said "science."

Source: Milliyet, Turkey, August 18, 2007.

In answer to the question "Is it sinful for a woman to wear a swimsuit at beaches and swimming pools?" 83% of AKP voters, 63% of MHP voters and 14% of CHP voters said yes.

When asked how important it was for the Turkish president to be religious, 60% of the combined electorate said it was "very important."

In response to the question "Should restaurants and eateries be open in the daytime during Ramadan, or should they close until the iftar (evening meal to break the fast)," 53% of AKP voters, 30% of MHP voters, and 12% of CHP voters answered that they should be closed.

 Source: Milliyet, Turkey, August 18, 2007