Overview
Spatial Practices makes a timely and significant contribution to the growing literature on social/spatial theory. In it, the notion of spatial practice takes on a rich and layered meaning for some of America's leading scholars as they critically link the theoretical practices of the space of their disciplines to the practical social space of everyday political and economic urban life.Original essays provide compelling insights into the space of racial politics, the unavoidability of recognizing a radical planning practice, and the imagistic face of the contemporary "figured" city. The reader will find rich conceptual tools presented in discussions that grapple with issues raised by the production of reduced public space in common interest developments and the ubiquitous mall, the ideologies of economic restructuring, the rhetorical politics of urban revitalization, and the analytic potential of the photo/text.
Students and scholars interested in how spatial theory has enriched and renewed urban theory will find Spatial Practices invaluable. It will be useful in a wide range of classes across disciplines including urban studies, urban planning, architecture, political science, sociology, geography, economics, and policy studies.
Synopsis
This is a collection of essays by leading scholars in political science, geography, urban studies and planning. The contributors take a postmodern, critical approach to representations of the city and space, spatial practices and analysis. Chapters address such issues as the history and strategy of planning, walled cities and modern development, theories of capitalist development and modes of production, and urban planning.
Booknews
Nine essays that grew out of a 1990-91 lecture series at Cleveland State University draw on contemporary social criticism to critique and expand conventional approaches to the study and use of space in urban design. The topics include strategy and history, fantastic appearances, black politics, the new walled cities, regulation and flexible specializations, and city sights and sites. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)