Beyoğlu bölgesinde soylulaştırma, kozmopolitlik ve tüketim: Metropolitan habitus üzerine bir durum çalışması

This study explores the metropolitan habitus of gentrifiers in Istanbul?s urban core, Beyoğlu which is a cosmopolitan lifestyle center having a dynamic cultural life and a heterogeneous social composition. The study is based on qualitative research methods and mainly uses the in-depth interviews conducted with thirty-six gentrifiers. The gentrifiers in Beyoğlu who are a high-cultural-capital group, are mostly employed in social and cultural professions. Through studying their metropolitan habitus I attempt to delineate the interplay of identity, space and consumption for this educated new middle class population. The analysis of the gentrification habitus is conducted in three interrelated parts. First, the motives for gentrification and the meanings associated with Beyoğlu are presented in order to reflect gentrifiers? place-based strategies for identity construction. Secondly, their perceptions of and interactions with diversity are discussed. Thirdly, gentrifiers? taste, lifestyle, and consumption patterns are explored. The main argument of the study is that living in Beyoğlu which pertains to a form of consumption and an aesthetic experience in relation to space, reflects a cosmopolitan attitude. This is a way to articulate cultural capital and social distinction for the Beyoğlu gentrifiers. The cosmopolitan attitude indicating an openness to and interest in difference has limits and paradoxical aspects which are also discussed within the scope of this study. This study aims to contribute to the literatures on gentrification, the new middle class, social organization of taste, and consumption.