Spacing Out: Towards a Critical Geography of Law

Abstract

The authors analyze the interconnections between space, law, and power and forge links between critical studies in law and geography. Analytical categories of space -for example, the divide between public and private space, or the concept of national citizenship-are all politically constructed. The authors analyze Canadian and American concepts of federalism and their impact on regulating worker safety. A common judicial mapping of work, local space, and state regulation determines whether local officials have enforcement authority in contexts where national worker safety regulations apply. Through this analysis, the authors illustrate the potential for future studies in critical legal geography.