2006 EYLÜL 2006-SAYI 55 Makale: NATIONALISM AND MODERNITY; MODERNISATION OF THE STATE AND THE SYSTEM OF STATES Cengiz DİNÇ ABSTRACT: This article tries to locate modernity, albeit partially, in time and space by analysing historical evolutions of some of its most important processes and concepts namely nationalism, and two other connected developments modernisation of the state and the system of states. It aims to contribute toward a better understanding of modernity in the social sciences in Turkey by a way of focusing on its components (naturally, other complementary works are needed and are in order for publications). It concludes that nationalism, modernisation of the state and the system of states have all become important components of modernity and are worth watching for when deciding for ‘modernity level’ of each nation -state or international group. Key words: Modernity, Nationalism, Modern State, System of States, Legitimacy