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Sakir Karakoc

PhD Student

Education

M.S., Settlement Archaeology, Middle East Technical University, 2023 B.A., History, Middle East Technical University, 2019

Specialties

My research interests focus on political economy, political transformations, ancient economy theories, state formation processes, and the prehistory of Anatolia and the Near East. State formation and the transition from household economies to mass production and vice versa represent pivotal moments in human history, profoundly influencing societal structures and economic systems. Historically, the formation of states has been a complex process, often met with opposition from various societal segments. This opposition can stem from a reluctance to change established societal norms or conflicts of interest between different groups. In Anatolia, the transition from the Late Bronze Age to the Iron Age provides a unique case study to explore these dynamics. This period was marked by significant societal and political upheavals, which played a crucial role in shaping the region's future trajectory. My research aims to delve into the transition from a household-based economy to one characterized by mass production and vice versa. This shift had profound implications for societal organization, economic practices, and the distribution of power and resources. The move towards mass production often entailed the development of new technologies, changes in labor organization, and the emergence of new social and economic hierarchies. Based on this, my research aims to explore the reasons behind societies producing beyond their immediate needs, delving into the underlying motivations and incentives for such behavior.