The State’s Media Apparatus: The Cultural Hegemony Produced by the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation

Authors : Nuriye Çelik

Pages : 813-831

Doi:10.20296/tsadergisi.1610910

View : 151 | Download : 532

Publication Date : 2025-12-08

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study explores the critical role of the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) in producing cultural hegemony within the frameworks of Antonio Gramsci\\\'s cultural hegemony theory and Louis Althusser\\\'s concept of ideological state apparatuses. As a public broadcaster, TRT has reinforced national identity and cultural heritage through historical narratives and cultural productions. From 1960 to 1990, its content focused on nation-building and modernization, while the 1990s emphasized urbanization and growing realism. The 2000s saw the rise of conservative morality and neo-Ottoman themes, amplified by TRT\\\'s expanding presence on digital platforms. The study highlights TRT’s strategic functions in promoting national unity and cultural pride domestically and contributing to Turkey’s cultural diplomacy internationally. It also emphasizes the role of historical narratives in disseminating hegemonic discourses, while noting the emergence of resistance mechanisms in the digital era. By adapting to shifting sociopolitical contexts, TRT has served as a key instrument for shaping national identity and safeguarding cultural values. Internationally, it continues to act as a platform for presenting Turkey’s history and cultural heritage. The study evaluates TRT’s contribution to hegemonic discourse creation and dissemination, particularly in the context of its influence in the contemporary media ecosystem.
Keywords : TRT, Kültürel hegemonya, Devletin ideolojik aygıtı, tarihsel anlatılar

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