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14. Urban sociology november 11, 2009

Aysu Kes Erkul.

Sociology traditionally isn’t regarded by urban designers as one of the disciplines that is related to the design process or implementation. Nevertheless, as urban designers we can learn a lot from urban sociologists who will make our designs better and more functional. Aysu Kes Erkul is an urban sociologist who completed extensive studies on the impact of different forms of capital on the housing preferences of people, as well on their perceptions about the city they live in.

Aysu Kes Erkul conducted her research in Ankara, Turkey. She found that some of the factors affecting urban segregation are social and cultural capital. Demands and expectations of urban residents, based on social and cultural factors, are motivating them to make certain choices. People’s ideas and views of an ideal neighborhood are affected by their childhood experiences. Housing became a cultural consumption product that reflects these choices while representing wealth and social status. The place we live is a more than a just a dwelling.

Over the centuries, many theories were developed on how we make choices in the selection process. One of them, developed by Pierre Bourdieu in 20th century, is widely used today. His concept is connected with his theoretical ideas on class. Bourdieu asserts that social positions and the division of economic, cultural and social resources in general are legitimized with the help of symbolic capital.

Central Ankara, Turkey. Provided by Aysu Kes Erkul.	Central Ankara, Turkey.Provided by Aysu Kes Erkul.

Downtown of Ankara, Turkey.Provided by Aysu Kes Erkul.	New neighborhoods of Ankara, Turkey. Provided by Aysu Kes Erkul.

New neighborhoods of Ankara, Turkey. Provided by Aysu Kes Erkul.	New neighborhoods of Ankara, Turkey. Provided by Aysu Kes Erkul.

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