ENVISIONING RE-IDENTIFICATION MACHINES: COUNTERACTING DEPOLITICIZATION AND ENHANCING SOCIAL CAPITAL IN URBAN SPACE THROUGH SPECULATIVE NARRATIVE DESIGN
In the era of commercialized urban spaces, the phenomenon of "alienation-by-malling" has led to the privatization of central public spaces. This transformation has critically affected local communities, leading to fragmentation and isolation. As urbanisation intensifies and cities continue to expand, the role of public spaces in fostering social interaction, community engagement, and overall well-being becomes increasingly critical. However, in many metropolitan areas, traditional public spaces have been overshadowed by mall-centric developments that prioritise commercial interests over public needs. These mall-centric urban spaces, characterised by their privatised nature and focus on consumerism, often exhibit social, cultural, and environmental deficiencies that undermine their potential as vibrant and inclusive urban environments.
