Abstract
AbstractIn this chapter, we show what and how space syntax has contributed to theoriesand general knowledge of the built environment. First, we provide an introduction to two established researchtraditions, positivismand hermeneutics. The aim is to demonstrate through modal logic what the possibilities and limitations are for gaining general understandings and making theoretical explanations from space syntax research. Modal logic uses expressions to test the explanatory power of statements. Second, we show what space syntax adds to the debate about spatialintegrationand spatial segregation as seen in relation to market and socialrationality. We will focus on the spatial aspects and discuss these in relation to declining versus vital neighbourhoods, crime, anti-socialbehaviour, cultures, political ideologies, gender, and the use of space. Third, we give some reflections on what space syntax has contributed in regards to a comprehensive architecture theory. Finally, at the end, we add as an epilogue a thought experiment on how space syntax theories can be applied within the compact city debate. Exercises are provided at the end of this chapter.
Highlights
ÁÁ ÁÁ ÁÁ ÁÁ Á Á Á Á Positivism Hermeneutics Explanations Understandings Theory building Generalisation Urban sustainability
The success of the natural sciences contributed to several attempts to imitate its positivistic approaches in the human and social sciences, but without success
From the 1960s onwards, a new hermeneutic direction was developed by Hans-Georg Gadamer and Jürgen Habermas
Summary
Space syntax and its variants are constantly developing, and developments in computer science allow for improvements in the formal applications that the space syntax tools rely on. Continuous research and its lasting results depend on methodological reliability and on a systematic accounting of the conditions under which the claims might turn out to be true or false This is what theory development on built environments is dependent on, and how space syntax methods have been improved and developed over the last three decades. Space syntax provides understandings of the spatial possibilities for certain social activities such as crime, social segregation, and anti-social behaviour. It is all about how spatial integration and segregation condition sial integration and segregation. In an epilogue section, we reflect on how space syntax can be used in the compact city debate
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
