How is Gastronomy Perceived? A Study on Metaphorical Perception

Abstract

This study examines individual and societal perceptions of gastronomy through the metaphor analysis method. Within the scope of the research, an open-ended question was posed to 388 participants residing in Şanlıurfa to measure their metaphorical perceptions. Data were collected using the phenomenological design, and validity-reliability analysis methods were applied. As a result of the study, 36 different metaphors related to gastronomy were identified and classified into seven main categories. These categories were defined as “nature, environment, and nutrition,” “culture and tradition,” “emotions and human relations,” “science and innovation,” “discovery and journey,” “wealth and aesthetics,” and “abstract and profound meanings.” Among the most frequently used metaphors were “life itself,” “art,” “flavor journey,” and “culture.” The findings revealed that gastronomy is not only a biological necessity but is also associated with cultural, social, aesthetic, and environmental meanings. Furthermore, it was found that gastronomy serves as a strong source of metaphors reflecting individual and collective identities, societal values, and cultural contexts. The findings emphasize that individuals' life experiences shape the profound meanings attributed to gastronomy and highlight its significant role in cultural interactions between societies. In this context, the study contributes to the literature on the perception of gastronomy.