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Material Renovation and Social Change in Times of Ruination: Integration and Disintegration

Ira Cox

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Published in After Corporate Paternalism: Material Renovation And Social Change In Times Of Ruination (Integration And Conflict Studies 24)

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In times of crisis and upheaval, the built environment often becomes a site of contestation and transformation. Buildings, infrastructure, and other material objects are destroyed, damaged, or abandoned, and the social fabric of communities is disrupted. In the aftermath of such events, the question of how to rebuild and renovate the built environment becomes a pressing one.

This book explores the role of material renovation in social change, particularly in times of crisis and upheaval. It examines how the renovation of buildings, infrastructure, and other material objects can contribute to processes of social integration and disintegration, and how these processes can shape the built environment and the social fabric of communities.

After Corporate Paternalism: Material Renovation and Social Change in Times of Ruination (Integration and Conflict Studies 24)

After Corporate Paternalism: Material Renovation and Social Change in Times of Ruination (Integration and Conflict Studies Book 24)

by Christian Straube

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7740 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	189 pages

The book draws on a range of case studies from around the world, including the reconstruction of post-war Europe, the redevelopment of inner-city neighborhoods in the United States, and the rebuilding of communities after natural disasters. These case studies provide insights into the complex and often contradictory ways that material renovation can contribute to social change.

Material Renovation and Social Integration

Material renovation can play a positive role in social integration by providing new opportunities for people to come together and interact. For example, the construction of new community centers, libraries, and schools can create spaces where people can socialize, learn, and participate in civic life. Similarly, the renovation of public spaces, such as parks and plazas, can make them more inviting and accessible to people from all walks of life.

Material renovation can also contribute to social integration by preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. For example, the restoration of historic buildings and landmarks can provide a sense of continuity and identity for communities. Similarly, the creation of new public art and memorials can commemorate important events and people, and help to foster a sense of shared history and belonging.

Material Renovation and Social Disintegration

However, material renovation can also contribute to social disintegration. For example, the construction of new housing developments and infrastructure projects can disrupt existing communities and displace residents. Similarly, the renovation of public spaces can make them less accessible to certain groups of people, such as the poor, the elderly, and the disabled.

Material renovation can also contribute to social disintegration by creating new forms of inequality. For example, the construction of luxury housing developments can lead to gentrification and the displacement of low-income residents. Similarly, the renovation of public spaces can make them more appealing to tourists and other outsiders, while pushing out local residents.

The relationship between material renovation and social change is complex and multifaceted. Material renovation can contribute to both social integration and disintegration, and the effects of renovation can vary depending on the specific context in which it occurs.

It is important to consider the potential social impacts of material renovation before undertaking any major redevelopment projects. Planners and policymakers should work with community members to develop renovation plans that meet the needs of the community and promote social integration.

This book provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in the role of material renovation in social change. The case studies and insights presented in the book offer a nuanced understanding of the complex and often contradictory ways that material renovation can shape the built environment and the social fabric of communities.

After Corporate Paternalism: Material Renovation and Social Change in Times of Ruination (Integration and Conflict Studies Book 24)

by Christian Straube

5 out of 5