Measuring Cultural Participation: A Comprehensive Study in Kayseri

Abstract

This study investigates cultural participation in Kayseri, a secondary city in Türkiye with rich historical heritage yet persistently low levels of cultural engagement. Drawing on a quantitative survey conducted with 166 residents, the research identifies key barriers to participation, including socio-economic constraints, limited accessibility, and low awareness of cultural opportunities. The study is situated within the theoretical frameworks of cultural capital and socio-spatial inequality, emphasizing how demographic and geographic factors shape engagement with cultural life. The findings point to uneven distribution of cultural resources and highlight the need for localized, inclusive policy interventions. By offering data-driven insights into cultural behavior and access patterns, the study aims to inform municipal and institutional strategies and contribute to broader efforts for equitable cultural development in non-metropolitan urban contexts.