POLITICAL ECONOMY OF ARCHAEOLOGY IN TURKEY: AN INVESTIGATION OF FACTORS INFLUENCING ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Date

2023-8-11

Author

Akın, Soner

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This research comprehensively endeavors to understand the factors influencing archaeological studies in Turkey, investigating variations in research count, location, chronological range, and institutional affiliations from 1923 to 2020. The study explores the future implications of these shifts. The research utilizes a retrospective analysis of archaeological data sets, including excavations and surface surveys. This evaluation brings to light a significant interaction between political and economic factors and archaeological activities. It further spotlights various challenges such as discontinuity of archaeological studies in certain regions and timeframes, constraints on scientific research in particular areas, and the sway of political and diplomatic interplay on researchers. The theoretical underpinnings of study suggest that neoliberal factors significantly influence archaeological activities in Turkey. This indicates that archaeology is inherently intertwined with political and economic factors, and the identity of archaeological practices and archaeologists is more influenced by the political economy than empirical processes. In a bid to unearth the specific causes of growth or decline in research initiatives, the study investigates and maps the intertwined institutions and individuals contributing to policies and funding for archaeological research. The dissertation aims to decipher whether the patterns of archaeological research emanate from governmental policies, academic objectives, or a blend of these factors. It concludes by evaluating the impact of these policies on academic output, education, and awareness of cultural heritage. The findings suggest a correlation between archaeological undertakings in Turkey and political as well as economic factors. In summary, this research underscores the imperative of adopting a political and economic framework in comprehending the field of archaeology and directing forthcoming inquiries.

Subject Keywords

Archaeology in Turkey, Archaeological Praxes, Excavations, Surveys, Archaeological Output

URI

https://hdl.handle.net/11511/104839

Collections

Graduate School of Social Sciences, Thesis