O.k. Let's agree that data gathering and some metric system or systems will always be required in order to measure the actual physical relationships of such planning fundamentals as areas for required uses, infrastructure distribution, "intensities"of use, physical capacities vs. loads, circulation flows, etc.
Let's assume that all the necessary tools exist in our box. Now what? What do we do with them, and why? What agreement on the fundamental purpose and raison d'etre of the concentration of habitat and commerce we call "city" is there? The city serves a variety of needs on both the supply and consumption sides of its social and economic metabolism, which variy mostly in degree rather than kind in response to population size or cultural differences.
We know what a necropolis is; what, then, is a "vitopolis" (vital + metropolis)? We know pretty well "what"
it serves, but seem to be not so clear on "who"
it serves outside the issues of fairly comfortable daily survival, defense, commercial gain, industrial pursuits, or affirmation of group membership and civic ties. All macrocosmic events depend ultimately on gravity, ours not to reason why, but what is the primary social "force" holding the city together which might also explain suburban population dispersal?
If we think we know the answer to that question, can we describe an overriding fundamental reality within the multifarious dimensions of a city that gives us a single starting point for thinking about urban organization and basic purpose? I am very certain it will not be found in a system of measurement, or in objective data gathering and analysis for design direction, as important as these are to both design process and result.
We may never get there if all the questions, or the expected "right" answers are based on a priori bias, classical assumptions, or any formulaic approach that excludes the human psyche. In any case, I think we are looking for a singularity encompassing all expressions of human values, a key to elaborating an understanding of truly nurturing and sustainable urban design.
Any ideas?
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Gary Collins AIA
Principal
Gary R. Collins, AIA
Jacksonville OR
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