A modern dwelling problematic: Non-homes of the world and Turkey

This study is based on the idea that distinctive conceptual frameworks are needed for the critique of existing housing regime. Many of the routes covered by the housing debate are far from understanding the specific conditions of the current housing regime. Therefore, one of these prospective conceptual frameworks is presented in this study. The conceptual analysis is based on the idea that today's housing regime has transformed dwelling practices into a highly regulated, extremely professionalized commodity production line as a constructive element of the capitalist economy. This regime is sustained by a society convinced that housing needs must be met only by housing production. This study claims that the normative mindset constructed by concepts of housing and home can exist and be legitimized only by determining what is not a home. Accordingly, this study examines the ways of exclusion and criminalization of specific dwelling practices by novel housing regime and masses that embrace it. These practices are conceptualized as non-homes within this text. A number of dwelling practices devoid of the qualities such as familial, sedentary, adequate and legal have been examined through the ability of them to deconstruct, violate and directly reject normativity. Despite the hegemony of the housing regime, the set of housing practices aside from it are plural, widespread and functional for problematizing the concept of housing in a meaningful context. This study primarily examines excluded practices on the axis of familiality, sedentarity, adequacy and legality under the title of non-homes. Then, as a categorical non-home practice, a detailed conceptual discussion on homelessness follows. Both chapters are examined through Anglo-Saxon geography where the current paradigm of housing regime and homelessness is experienced at the most comprehensive level. The study is concluded with a review of the non-homes and homelessness practices in Turkey within the evaluated conceptual framework.