Blog
Embracing Armchair Urbanism: Understanding the Built Environment
Armchair urbanism: Exploring urban areas, their design, and the interaction between people and the built environment. #Urbanism #ArmchairUrbanist
In today’s rapidly urbanizing world, the study of urbanism has become increasingly relevant. As an armchair urbanist, I find myself captivated by the intricate dynamics between inhabitants and their built environment. This term refers to individuals who take a keen interest in urban areas, their design, and the way people interact with them. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of armchair urbanism, exploring its significance and the factors driving urbanization worldwide.
Understanding Urbanism:
Urbanism encompasses various disciplines, including urban planning and urban sociology, which aim to comprehend the complexities of urban life. Urban areas, such as cities, towns, conurbations, and suburbs, are the products of urbanization, marking a contrast to rural environments. Modern urban planning has evolved from the ancient urban revolution, shaping human civilization and leaving a lasting impact on the environment.
The Global Shift:
The growth of urban areas has been remarkable over the past century. In 1950, 764 million people lived in urban areas globally, while by 2014, this number had skyrocketed to 3.9 billion. The surge in urban population is a result of both overall population growth and an increased percentage of people residing in urban areas. In 2009, urban dwellers outnumbered their rural counterparts, marking a pivotal moment in human history. Projections indicate that the urban population will comprise 68% of the global population by 2050, with substantial growth expected in Africa and Asia.
Drivers of Urbanization:
Urbanization is fueled by various factors, including economic opportunities, improved infrastructure, and access to better services. Countries such as Argentina and Japan boast urbanization rates exceeding 90%, while Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and the United States fall within the 80-90% range. These nations demonstrate how urbanization has reshaped societies and economies, creating interconnected metropolitan areas that extend beyond city boundaries.
The Armchair Perspective:
As an armchair urbanist, I find inspiration in observing, analyzing, and discussing the built environment from a distance. It involves exploring the evolution of urban spaces, understanding architectural styles, and contemplating the social, economic, and environmental implications of urban development. While not actively involved in urban planning or research, armchair urbanists contribute to the broader conversation and raise awareness about the importance of sustainable and inclusive cities.
Armchair urbanism provides an avenue for individuals to engage with the world of urbanism from a personal perspective. It allows us to appreciate the complexities of urban areas, their growth, and their impact on societies and the environment. By embracing this role, armchair urbanists contribute to shaping a future where cities are designed to meet the needs of their inhabitants while fostering sustainability and inclusivity. As our world continues to urbanize at an unprecedented rate, armchair urbanism becomes an increasingly valuable lens through which we can understand and appreciate the ever-changing urban landscape.
Check out the links below for further information on urbanism.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urbanism
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism/
- Wirth, Louis (1938). “Urbanism as a Way of Life” (PDF). American Journal of Sociology.
- ^ “Urbanism”. obo. Retrieved 2023-08-05.
- International Forum on Urbanism
The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge
