Authenticity Under the Pressure of Commodification in Tourism

Abstract

The chapter begins by defining the concept of authenticity and discusses different types of authenticity. The concept of commoditization is then introduced, followed by a review of the literature on commoditization in terms of its positive and negative aspects. As a result, it seems obvious that a broad consensus on topics such as definition, classification, effects, precautions, or management decisions to be made on the idea of authenticity in tourism and the commodification of culture or cultural elements is not yet achievable. While it continues to be discussed in the relevant literature whether tourists today seek authenticity, it can be noted that certain cultural elements have become commodities and started moving away from authenticity in tourism destinations. Some cultural elements that provide a competitive advantage have become ordinary; and this situation is mostly accepted by local people who acquire an income from tourism. Moreover, when the relevant literature is reviewed, there are also studies claiming that commodification positively affects cultural authenticity.