Margaret Morley

Dr. Margaret Morley is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology at Appalachian State University. Her research focuses on the intersection of colonial/capitalist power dynamics with social media and performing arts, particularly analyzing the transformation of Egypt's belly dance industry under media capitalism. She holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University (2023), an M.A. from the School of Oriental and African Studies (2007), and a B.A. from Oberlin College (2003).

Her work develops an anthropological theory of attention as both a resource and weapon, examining how visual aesthetics and media platforms shape career opportunities in culturally symbolic industries. Upcoming publications include analyses of attention commodification in belly dance and the role of intersubjectivity in cross-cultural performance.

Dr. Morley’s research spans global studies, media capitalism, and the anthropology of the senses, with a regional focus on the Middle East and North Africa. Her office is located in 349G Anne Belk Hall.