Extended Abstract



1. Introduction

The present study is a study of cultural conflicts caused by tourism in the coastal city of Babolsar with an anthropological approach. Tourism has become one of the most important cultural, economic, and social areas in Iran in recent decades.Tourism has become a significant economic, cultural, and social activity in Iran, with Babolsar, located in Mazandaran province, emerging as a key tourist destination due to its strategic location by the Babolrud River and the Caspian Sea. The influx of domestic and international tourists, particularly during spring and summer, has contributed to economic growth and provided financial opportunities for locals. The rapid development of tourism infrastructure has further strained the local environment and resources, intensifying these tensions. The study aims to explore these cultural clashes from an anthropological perspective, focusing on the lived experiences of both locals and tourists. Using Victor Turner's "liminality" theory, the research examines how tourism creates a transitional space where tourists suspend social norms, leading to behaviors that disrupt the local cultural order. By investigating these dynamics, the study seeks to uncover the root causes of cultural conflicts and offer solutions for better managing the relationship between tourists and the local community.



2. Research Methodology

This qualitative study uses an ethnographic approach to examine the cultural conflicts caused by tourism in Babolsar. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews, participatory observation, and field notes, involving 27 participants: 10 tourists, 9 non-economic locals, 4 economic locals, and 4 lifeguards. The ethnographic method offers a deep understanding of the experiences of both locals and tourists, providing rich, qualitative insights. Interviews, lasting 40-60 minutes, were recorded and transcribed for analysis.

3. Research Findings

The study reveals several key areas of cultural conflict in Babolsar, stemming from the interactions between tourists and the local community. These conflicts can be categorized into symbolic, security, spatial, temporal, and economic dimensions.

1. Symbolic Conflict: One of the most prominent conflicts arises from differences in clothing and public behavior between tourists and locals. Tourists, especially during the summer months, often adopt a casual and liberal dress code, which is perceived by the locals as a violation of traditional norms, particularly in the presence of religious or cultural sites.

2. Security Conflict: Another significant area of conflict involves safety concerns. Lifeguards reported frequent disregard by tourists of safety guidelines, particularly in terms of swimming in hazardous conditions or ignoring rescue instructions.









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