Fragility and antifragility in cities and regions: Space, uncertainty and inequality

Abstract

Offering a novel and interdisciplinary approach, this thought-provoking book critically analyses the notions of fragility and antifragility and addresses their connections and applications in planning theory, urban studies and architecture. It goes beyond the risk and resilience paradigm and proposes methodological and pragmatic strategies to cope with severe forms of uncertainty and socio-spatial inequalities. Showcasing expert contributions from leading scholars, this book illustrates how a specific research focus on fragility and antifragility may elucidate some key value-based facets of contemporary cities and regions in order to foster sustainability, innovation and justice. Chapters examine the theoretical and political dimensions of fragility and antifragility, exploring how these two opposing concepts can reimagine traditional rationality in public action and potentially reframe the methods used by architects, urban planners, and policy makers. Exploring conceptual, methodological and case-based aspects, this incisive book will be of great interest to academics and students within the fields of urban studies, cities and urban geography, architecture, social sciences, philosophy, technology and innovation studies. Its presentation of original accounts of antifragile plans, policies and projects will further benefit policy makers practising within these areas.