urban architecture

  ( noun )

Definition: 

The design and construction of buildings and spaces within cities, encompassing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the built environment.

Example: 

The city's urban architecture reflected a blend of historical styles and modern innovation, creating a unique and dynamic cityscape.

defensive architecture

  ( noun )

Definition: 

Design strategies employed in the built environment to deter unwanted activities or individuals from using certain spaces, often through physical barriers or modifications.

Example: 

The installation of defensive architecture, such as benches with dividers, aimed to prevent loitering and maintain the intended use of the public space.

hostile architecture

  ( noun )

Definition: 

A subset of defensive architecture characterized by design elements that are explicitly intended to exclude or discourage specific groups of people, often those experiencing homelessness or engaging in undesirable behaviors.

Example: 

Critics argued that the city's use of hostile architecture, like anti-homeless spikes, created an unwelcoming environment and exacerbated social inequalities.

anti-homeless spike

  ( noun )

Definition: 

Physical deterrents, such as metal spikes or studs, installed in public spaces to prevent individuals experiencing homelessness from sleeping or resting in those areas.

Example: 

The presence of anti-homeless spikes on the window ledges sparked public debate about the ethics of using architecture to displace vulnerable populations.

bum- proof benches

  ( noun )

Definition: 

Benches designed with features, such as dividers, sloping surfaces, or uncomfortable materials, to discourage people from lying down or sleeping on them.

Example: 

The installation of bum-proof benches in the park was intended to deter overnight stays and maintain the space for daytime recreational use.

urban planning

  ( noun )

Definition: 

The process of designing and managing the physical growth and development of cities, including land use, transportation, infrastructure, and public spaces.

Example: 

Effective urban planning is essential for creating sustainable, equitable, and livable cities that meet the needs of all residents.

well-being

  ( noun )

Definition: 

A state of overall health, happiness, and prosperity, encompassing physical, mental, and social dimensions of life.

Example: 

Access to green spaces and recreational facilities can significantly contribute to the well-being of urban residents.

right to public space

  ( noun )

Definition: 

The concept that all individuals should have equal access to and use of public areas, such as parks, streets, and plazas, without discrimination or exclusion.

Example: 

Advocates for social justice argue that defensive architecture infringes upon the right to public space, particularly for marginalized communities.

empirical research

  ( noun )

Definition: 

Systematic investigation based on observation, experimentation, or data collection to gather evidence and test hypotheses about the real world.

Example: 

More empirical research is needed to understand the long-term social and psychological effects of defensive architecture on both targeted and non-targeted populations.

normative theories

  ( noun )

Definition: 

Frameworks that prescribe how things ought to be, based on values, principles, and moral reasoning, often used to evaluate the ethical implications of actions or policies.

Example: 

Different normative theories, such as utilitarianism and deontology, offer contrasting perspectives on the moral permissibility of defensive architecture.

public sphere

  ( noun )

Definition: 

An area in social life where individuals can come together to freely discuss and identify societal problems, and through that discussion influence political action.

Example: 

The town hall meeting served as a crucial platform within the public sphere, enabling residents to voice their concerns about the proposed zoning changes and engage in constructive dialogue with local officials.

consequentialist

  ( adjective )

Definition: 

Relating to or characterized by a focus on the consequences or outcomes of actions as the primary basis for determining their moral value.

Example: 

A consequentialist argument in favor of defensive architecture might emphasize its potential to reduce crime rates and improve public safety, even if it has some negative impacts on certain individuals.

utilitarianism

  ( noun )

Definition: 

An ethical theory that holds that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people.

Example: 

From a utilitarianism perspective, the implementation of a new public policy would be deemed ethical if it demonstrably enhanced the collective happiness and welfare of the majority of citizens, even if it resulted in minor inconveniences for a few.

prioritarianism

  ( noun )

Definition: 

An ethical theory that gives greater weight to the well-being of those who are worse off, prioritizing improvements for the most disadvantaged members of society.

Example: 

When allocating limited healthcare resources, a prioritarianism approach would prioritize providing essential medical services to low-income communities and vulnerable populations, aiming to reduce health disparities and improve their overall well-being.

egalitarianism

  ( noun )

Definition: 

A political philosophy that emphasizes equality and advocates for equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their social status or background.

Example: 

The implementation of progressive taxation policies, aimed at redistributing wealth and reducing income inequality, aligns with the principles of egalitarianism by promoting a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across society.

sufficientarianism

  ( noun )

Definition: 

An ethical theory that focuses on ensuring that everyone has enough to live a decent life, rather than striving for complete equality.

Example: 

A sufficientarianism approach to social welfare would prioritize providing basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare to all citizens, ensuring that everyone has a minimum standard of living that allows them to thrive and participate fully in society.

Libertarianism

  ( noun )

Definition: 

A political philosophy that upholds liberty as a core principle, emphasizing individual rights, minimal government intervention, and free markets.

Example: 

Libertarianism policies often advocate for lower taxes, deregulation, and the protection of private property rights, believing that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices and pursue their own interests without undue interference from the state.

prima facie

  ( adjective )

Definition: 

Based on first impression; accepted as correct until proved otherwise.

Example: 

The evidence presented a prima facie case of negligence, suggesting that the defendant had a duty of care and failed to exercise it reasonably, leading to the plaintiff's injuries.