“The panorama-city is a 'theoretical' (that is, visual) simulacrum, in short a picture, whose condition of possibility is an oblivion and a misunderstanding of practices.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis of Quote by Michel de Certeau
In this quote, Michel de Certeau discusses the concept of a "panorama-city" as a theoretical and visual representation of a city. He suggests that this representation relies on an ignorance or misinterpretation of the actual practices that occur within the city. By emphasizing the disconnect between the image of the city and the lived experiences within it, de Certeau highlights the importance of recognizing and understanding the everyday activities and behaviors that shape urban spaces. This quote prompts us to consider the limitations of idealized representations of cities and the need to engage with the complexities and dynamics of urban life.
Understanding the Concept of Panorama-City
In this quote by Michel de Certeau, the idea of the panorama-city is introduced as a theoretical concept that is essentially a visual representation with an underlying sense of oblivion and misunderstanding. This concept holds relevance in understanding how modern urban spaces are perceived and experienced.
Exploring the concept of the panorama-city by Michel de Certeau
Michel de Certeau examines the concept of the panorama-city as a "theoretical" (that is, visual) simulacrum in his work. He describes it as a picture that relies on an oblivion and misunderstanding of practices for its existence.
Reflection Questions
In considering Michel de Certeau's concept of the panorama-city as a visual simulacrum created through a misunderstanding of practices, it raises several thought-provoking questions:
- How does our understanding of urban spaces shift when viewed through the lens of Certeau's notion of the panorama-city?
- What are the implications of overlooking the everyday practices and lived experiences that form the fabric of the city in favor of a more theoretical and visually constructed perspective?
- In what ways do our perceptions of cities and urban environments change when we acknowledge the invisible actions and interventions that shape them?
- How can we reconcile the dichotomy between the theoretical representations of a city as a panorama and the lived realities of its inhabitants?
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