Özet:

This study aims to understand the boundaries in the light of theoretical discussions. Since the fundamental theoretical orientation related to the borders constitutes nationalism, the study focuses on the borders through the theories of nationalism. Nationality-related theories are the main question of how the boundaries are applied when constructed, how the boundaries are contained, how the boundaries are functioning and playing the role of these theories. The study, first of all, includes the definition of nationalism, its meanings and its relationship with borders. Three main theoretical approaches to nationalism (primary approach, modernist approach and ethno-symbolic approach) are then focused and these theoretical approaches trace the boundaries. As a result of the study, it has been found that the boundaries do not find enough place in the primary theoretical approach. In modernist theory, the boundaries symbolize the fields of national-state sovereignty and the starting and end points of nationality and national identity. In addition, the limits have become the main focus of interest of modernist theory, since they formed the understanding of the limits of the modern era in a fixed, rigorous and linear way. In modernist theoretical tradition, the boundaries were found to be the center of the themes. In the ethno-symbolic theory, the boundaries are the lines that symbolize the social conditions of the period and ethnic and cultural identity. Since symbols are the social carriers of meaning, the boundaries have a symbolic function in social life and organization. It is understood that, as in the modernist approach, the ethno-symbolic approach puts the boundaries at the center of its analysis. In this context, the boundaries are among the important sociological dynamics that facilitate the organization of nationalism and the construction of national identity.

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