Human Environment, Suitable Place, and Living Space

In the planning methodology, identifying the problem and determining the solution is a process. This trend is also observed in scientific methods. However, is the planning process and implementation different from scientific methods? The planner, as a scholar, collects data and uses the most suitable methods to achieve policy objectives. The #theory of #phenomenology enables the planner to better understand the classification of human movements based on scientific methodologies. This discourse helps planners discover the empirical aspects of the planning process and explore the substance of trends instead of just the surface of them. Phenomenology involves the descriptive analysis of experiential processes (E. Husserl, the founder of phenomenology). Thus, the phenomenology of social trends is also based on the experiences of human movements. Movement is a future-oriented function and includes experiment, action, and jump (A. Schutz).

The range of experiences and wills

#Surrounding #Phenomenology explores how human actions construct the empirical context of surroundings and what characteristics contribute to high-quality urban spaces. Surrounding phenomenology seeks to understand how people perceive their environment and emphasizes the importance of human movement in shaping connection with surroundings as this movement creates and defines the spaces. Places embody diverse human experiences and unique characteristics (Relph). "Genius Loci" in a place signifies its spirit (C. Nurrerg Schultz). Understanding a place begins with residing in it and experiencing life events. Understanding the spatial characteristics of urban spaces is crucial for creating man-made surroundings. Movement resulting from a conscious understanding of a place can address environmental and natural challenges (C. Nurrerg Schultz).

Space exists based on place (M. Heidegger), and the aspects of space known as places are chosen by human will (E. Ralph). According to Schultz, phenomenologists recognize three types of space as "Lived Space" or "Experienced Space":

Pragmatic space: connects humans with the natural environment.

- Perceptive space: it is needed for personal recognition of human beings.

- Existential space: makes a person dependent on a social and cultural whole.

A key indicator of living space is "place." Schultz also focuses on two qualitative spaces: Space of Thought, which allows humans to think about space, and Logical Space, a tool for interpreting and comparing other types of space.

This article is based on the article by Johann Albrecht, 1986. "Development, context, and Purpose of Planning