Dialectic of Distinction and De – differentiation

Abstract

Although the concept of wandering has not been applied popularly in Iran, it could explain many cultural phenomena. The present article first outlines the history of wandering and its used meaning. Then, it describes a form of wandering as the distinctive lifestyle of urban subordinate groups in the shopping centers. The result of this article has been obtained by employing qualitative methods and through interviews and observation. The authors believe that shopping centers create a certain lifestyle for urban middle class people through the purchase and consumption of goods. At the same time, wandering in its used meaning in Iran has formed the lifestyle of lower class groups.

Keywords

• Cultural Modernity
• Distinction
• Everyday Life
• Lifestyle
• Popular Culture
• Wandering