Paradigm of modernization from the historical perspective (A new view for modernization debates in Azerbaijan: 1848-1878)

Occurring under the effects of modernization paradigm, the structural transformations of 19th century feature the idea of advancement in any field of life. To distinguish the linearity level of modernization criteria, the concepts "hegemony" and "knowledge-power" play a role as analytical opportunities at the core of our study. The debates to what extent the Czarist Russia's policies on the establishment of modernization in Azerbaijan are determinant are questioned within this context. The answers to the questions on how the conceptual and institutional relationships have been shaped based on the modernization concepts are sought. The subjects and limits of "modernization" concept and "advancement" direction create new antithesis discussions. Playing determinative role in legitimization of sovereignty depending on the structural changes and political conditions, the technological, military, and economic advantages are related to the power composition. Adding the "social-cultural advantages" to the parameters constituting the institutional aspect of modernization, the Eurocentric perception constitutes the main correlation of the present study. From this aspect, it is clear that the new management styles and cultural hegemony patterns arising with the rise of modernization are based on the "surveillance and control" proposed by Michel Foucault. Since 19th century, Azerbaijan history has faced a complex and strained period. Occupied by Russia and Iran, the country has been separated into Northern and Southern parts. The opposition of Azerbaijani society to the assimilation and integration approaches that they have faced after the occupation is strengthened with the cultural identity motive. Especially the link between the new quests, which have arisen in the Azerbaijani society after the Czarist occupation, and modernization are discussed from this aspect. In this process, in which the changes have been shaped, the hegemonic inclinations of Czarist regime concretize the capitalist production network of Azerbaijan. At this point, the problem "what the background formulation of modernization exactly is" is featured with the analyses of Antonio Gramsci. İt is assumed that the rational structure and effects of modernization in Azerbaijan are related with the ideological subjects created by the hegemony.