Urbanism Speakeasy #32
Some recent highlights from Urbanism Speakeasy:
People are free to debate any issue that lies within the boundaries of allowable opinion.
The relevance of manufactured consent in urbanism is undeniable. There’s a spectrum of discourse considered acceptable, and a not small list of you-can’t-say-that topics. There are ways to normalize seemingly preposterous ideas. Here’s one that’s had a major influence on my work.
When we’re presented with data, we interpret it through our individual experiences, education, cultural background, and personal biases.
Perspectivism means what we consider as facts are not objective truths, but interpretations framed in a narrative. Nietzsche would tell you that storytelling is vital for urbanists because facts are inherently subjective. Two different people can draw conflicting conclusions about what an indisputable fact means.
"The cyclist, who was wearing a helmet, will be buried Friday."
Anyone who considers themselves a safety advocate needs to understand that details like bike helmets, earbuds, flip-flops, and dark clothing aren’t the issue. Motorists are the issue. Here's why the messaging of journalists is so important.
Twitter / X is real life.
Never ever ever let the fire department dictate street design.