In Pursuit of Belonging: Forging an Ethical Life in European-Turkish Spaces

In Pursuit of Belonging is an ethnography of Turkish migrants' struggle for understanding, intimacy, and appreciation when they return from Germany to their Turkish homeland. It conveys the struggle to forge an ethical life by relating the experiences of a second-generation German-Turkish woman named Leyla.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2019
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The book explores the complex web of cultural,social and economic factors that shape the experiences of Turkish migrants in Germany,including their experiences of discrimination,marginalization and exclusion.
In the pursuit of belonging, we embark on a lifelong journey that transcends mere attainment. It is a continuous struggle, a battle against the forces that seek to divide and isolate us. For those who return to their homeland after years spent abroad, the struggle for belonging becomes even more arduous. It is a journey filled with complexities, challenges, and unexpected turns.

In her ethnography titled "In Pursuit of Belonging," anthropologist Rottmann delves into the lives of Turkish migrants who have returned to their Turkish homeland after years in Germany. Through the captivating narratives of Leyla, a second-generation German-Turkish woman, the book explores the intricate web of cultural, social, and economic factors that shape the experiences of Turkish migrants in Germany. It sheds light on the pervasive discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion they face, highlighting the struggles they endure to establish a sense of belonging and integration.

The book takes readers on a journey through the complexities of cultural identity, exploring how the migrants navigate between their German heritage and their Turkish roots. It examines the challenges they face in reconciling their dual identities and the tensions that arise from living in a society that often perpetuates stereotypes and prejudices. Rottmann's writing is deeply empathetic, capturing the emotional toll of the migration experience and the resilience of the migrants in the face of adversity.

Through her ethnographic lens, Rottmann sheds light on the broader societal implications of the migration phenomenon. She highlights the contributions of Turkish migrants to German society and the challenges they face in achieving social recognition and acceptance. She also explores the impact of migration on the homeland, examining how it shapes the cultural landscape and the social dynamics of the Turkish community.

"In Pursuit of Belonging" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that offers valuable insights into the complexities of migration and the pursuit of belonging. It challenges our preconceptions and stereotypes and encourages us to see the human faces behind the statistics and headlines. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the migrants and a call to action for policymakers, educators, and society as a whole to work towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 159 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789202694