The social semiotics of shopping centers as consumption cathedrals: the sample of ‘Forum Bornova shopping center’
Keywords:
Shopping Centers, Consumption, Leisure Times, Urban Forms, Social SemioticsAbstract
This study is conducted on today’s multi-purpose shopping centers which are the most crucial references of consumption cultures. Their peculiar and identifiable design elements are analyzed according to the social semiotics approach. Moreover, experiences of shopping which are realized in these centers are studied in the context of the aesthetization of everyday life and leisure time activities. As a result of literature review and case study which is conducted in the research, it is emphasized that some elements of ‘real urban places’ are imitated by ‘re-designing’ in such a type of consumption centers. Furthermore, it is expressed that the complicated, ambiguous and problematical structure of the real city is re-designed and re-organized in more isolated and sterile environment. Although they are the imitations of some features founded in ‘real urban life’ in which are offered some forms of entertainment, relaxation and social activities in addition to whose basic aim is ‘consumption’, it is claimed that the shopping centers are the rationalized and mechanical forms to try to just motivate to their visitors in order for them to consume.Downloads
Metrics
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Authors can retain copyright, while granting the journal right of first publication. Alternatively, authors can transfer copyright to the journal, which then permits authors non-commercial use of the work, including the right to place it in an open access archive. In addition, Creative Commons can be consulted for flexible copyright licenses.
©1999 Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.