Evaluating Contemporary Mosque Functions through John Urry’s Concept of the Tourist Gaze
Personal Biography
Esma Güven Turhan
Faculty of Theology, Necmettin Erbakan University / Institute of Social Sciences / Graduate Student in Sociology of Religion, Konya, Turkey
Email: esmaguven613@gmail.com, Tel: +90 555 860 45 79
I am Esma Güven Turhan, 25 years old, and I was born in Konya, Turkey. I am a graduate student in the Sociology of Religion at the Institute of Social Sciences, Faculty of Theology, Necmettin Erbakan University. My research focuses on the historical functions of mosques and their contemporary roles. I am actively involved in social projects and work as a book reviewer for an online platform.
Paper Abstract
This study examines the functions that mosques have historically served and assesses their current role through John Urry's concept of the ‘tourist gaze’. Since the early periods of Islam, mosques have not only served as places of worship but have also fulfilled various functions such as education, social assistance, guesthouses, and health services. However, in modern and postmodern times, mosques have increasingly been viewed as tourist commodities, which has led to a loss of their traditional functions.
John Urry’s concept of the ‘tourist gaze’ refers to the evaluation of tourist sites based on their aesthetic and visual appeal, with these sites subjected to constant maintenance and adjustments. This perspective has shifted the focus of mosques from addressing the needs of the local community to emphasizing their tourist attractions. Consequently, mosques have drifted away from meeting the social and cultural needs of local populations.
The research was conducted using qualitative methods, with data collected through interviews and observations. The study group consisted of individuals aged 25-35 who use mosques. The interviews and observations highlighted several key issues, including the limited daily use of mosques, the need for additional functions, the inadequacy of mosques being open only during prayer times, and the necessity for increased accommodation options in mosques.
Participants suggested adding various functions to mosques. Recommendations included expanding areas designated for women, creating child-friendly spaces, providing social support services such as soup kitchens, and establishing social activity areas around mosques. Additionally, it was noted that keeping mosques open only during prayer times is insufficient and that 24-hour access to mosques could better address both social and individual needs.
In conclusion, it was emphasized that mosques should not be viewed merely as tourist commodities but should be transformed into dynamic, multifunctional centers that address societal needs. This study aims to generate data for redesigning mosques according to local demands, thereby strengthening social ties and restoring their historical functions.
Keywords: Tourist Gaze, Social Functions, Additional Functions, 24-Hour Access, Redesigning Mosques, Restoring Historical Functions
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