Sesión 3. Escalas (glocales) de la ciudad latinoamericana: tensiones y desafíos

Welcome and Introduction

The session introduces the thematic lecture on Colombian citizenship, integrity, and anti-corruption efforts, focusing on good governance in cities.

Bueno Buenos días a todas y todos

• The session commences with greetings to all participants and an introduction to the thematic lecture series.

• Emphasizes the examination of good governance in cities throughout this semester.

Universidad en todo el país

• Acknowledgment of participants from various university campuses across Colombia.

• Recognition extended to public officials from different state entities and members of social organizations in Colombia and Central America.

Escalas globales de la ciudad latinoamericana

• Discussion on exploring global scales within Latin American cities, addressing tensions and challenges.

• Introduction to the upcoming conference by Professor Saskia Sassen on the concept of the global city.

Professor Saskia Sassen's Background

Profiling Professor Saskia Sassen, a renowned academic known for her work on global cities and urban studies.

Academic Achievements

• Description of Professor Sassen as a prominent scholar specializing in sociology and political science.

• Notable contributions include shaping the concept of the global city, emphasizing its relevance to today's societal dialogues.

Global Recognition

• Highlighting Professor Sassen's extensive academic career across continents such as Europe, America, Africa, etc.

• Mention of prestigious awards received for significant contributions to social sciences research.

Concept of Global Cities

Delving into the innovative concept of global cities as introduced by Professor Saskia Sassen.

Definition and Significance

• Explanation of global cities as unique intersections between local and global dynamics.

• Emphasizes how these cities embody a fusion of local contexts with strong global influences.

Presence in Latin American Cities

• Discussion on how global elements manifest differently in Latin American urban settings compared to major global financial or cultural hubs.

Smart Cities and Urban Technologies

The discussion delves into the concept of smart cities as a partial yet intriguing phase in urban development, serving as a testing ground for new urban technologies and raising questions about the impact of technology on urban life.

Exploring Smart Cities

• The initial phase of smart cities acts as a laboratory for new urban technologies, sparking curiosity and imagination about potential city transformations.

• Emerging technologies pose challenges in managing urban systems effectively, highlighting the need to consider the societal implications of aggressive technological advancements.

• The transformation of cities into living laboratories for smart urban technologies can evoke mixed reactions among the population, emphasizing the dual nature of technological innovation.

• Implementing new technologies in cities comes with a price, potentially leading to disruptions in the urban fabric and altering the essence of what defines a city.

Challenges and Implications of Urban Innovation

The conversation shifts towards examining how technological innovations impact urban landscapes, using examples like Toronto to illustrate both successes and failures in integrating advanced technologies within cities.

Urban Technological Integration

• Introducing advanced technologies without holistic planning can result in creating empty spaces within cities, diminishing their vibrancy and functionality.

• Cities are complex entities that embody diversity across various aspects such as income levels, politics, and religions, underscoring their significance as dynamic social environments.

Urban Evolution and Open Source Urbanism

The dialogue transitions to exploring the evolution of cities through history and delving into the concept of open source urbanism as a means to foster collaborative and inclusive urban development.

City Evolution and Open Source Urbanism

• Reflecting on how technology influences urbanization processes raises questions about whether technological advancements truly enhance or detract from authentic city experiences.

• Instances like Toronto's technologically-driven developments highlight the balance between innovation and maintaining the essence of an inclusive city environment.

Understanding Censorship and Technology in Cities

The speaker delves into the concept of censorship, exploring its nuances in English and Spanish, highlighting the difference between "censor" as a sensor and censor as emotions or sensations.

Exploring Censorship

• The distinction between "censor" with a 'c' denoting censorship and "censor" with an 's' referring to sensing or feeling.

• Viewing censorship not solely negatively but as a complex concept that can be fragile yet impactful.

• Highlighting how words like "censored" and "sensor" share roots but convey distinct meanings related to control and sensation.

• Discussing how sensitivity in architecture and urban design can influence people's interactions within cities.

Challenges of Urbanizing Technologies

The discussion shifts towards the challenges faced when integrating advanced technologies into urban environments, emphasizing the importance of experimentation over strict control.

Urban Technological Experimentation

• Embracing experimentation in large cities where total control is unattainable, fostering openness for diverse interactions.

• Acknowledging the potential negative outcomes of technological experiments while highlighting the value of shared experiences in city settings.

• Proposing technology-driven communication to enhance connections among individuals through shared interventions.

• Reflecting on positive interpretations of technological advancements despite potential negative implications, emphasizing shared experiences as key.

Maximizing Technology Integration in Cities

Delving into examples of cities heavily reliant on advanced technologies, such as Masdar City and Dubai, to explore the limits and possibilities of high-tech urbanization.

Technological Integration Examples

• Examining Masdar City and Dubai as extreme cases showcasing full technological integration within urban landscapes.

• Highlighting these cities as exemplars for understanding the impacts and preferences associated with extensive technological implementations.

• Noting South Korea's advancements alongside Masdar City and Dubai as leading examples of high-tech urban development.

The Essence of Urbanity and Technology

The discussion delves into the intersection of modernity, urban spaces, technology, and societal dynamics, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diversity in city development.

The Role of Modernity in Cities

• Modernity's impact on cities is highlighted as a potential challenge due to the emphasis on advanced elements that may not necessarily benefit or integrate well with the city's populace.

Diversity and Inclusivity in Urban Spaces

• Cities are depicted as spaces where diversity thrives, accommodating individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds. Emphasizes the significance of including the less privileged in urban planning.

Rich-Poor Disparities in Cities

• Acknowledgment of the coexistence of rich and poor inhabitants within cities. Positivity is found in cities providing opportunities for the less affluent to contribute to and benefit from urban life.

Sustainable City Development

• Critique on cities like Masdar and Songdo for catering primarily to affluent individuals and businesses. Calls for a more inclusive approach to city planning that considers diverse needs.

Urban Challenges: Balancing Tradition with Technological Advancements

Explores the evolving nature of cities amidst technological advancements, questioning how urban areas can maintain their essence while embracing innovation.

Evolutionary Nature of Cities

• Highlights the historical resilience and adaptability of cities over millennia, emphasizing their role as hubs for diverse populations and economic activities.

Middle Class Vitality in Urban Ecosystems

• Discusses how middle-class residents form the backbone of modern cities by contributing economically while also shaping urban culture through their daily interactions.

Active Role of Cities

• Views cities as dynamic entities rather than static structures, attributing their vibrancy to a blend of physical infrastructure, social interactions, and opportunities they offer.

Cultural Diversity Shaping Urban Identity

• Stresses the importance of cultural diversity within cities by citing examples like transportation preferences varying between countries such as Holland and North America.

Urbanization Challenges: Integrating Technology Responsibly

Examines the challenges associated with integrating technology into urban environments while maintaining a balance between innovation and preserving essential human interactions.

Technological Urbanization Dynamics

• Raises questions about how technological advancements influence societal behaviors such as shifting from communal movie theaters to individualized home entertainment experiences.

Redefining Citizenship in Urban Contexts

• Proposes reevaluating traditional notions of citizenship within an urban setting by focusing on residents' daily lives rather than solely prioritizing technological infrastructures.

Conceptualizing Urban Space Beyond Infrastructure

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the connection between routines in daily life and human openness to new experiences and changes in urban environments.

The Relationship Between Routine and Openness to Change

• The familiarity of routines in daily life influences human readiness to explore new things.

• Cities often appear static due to the immobility of buildings, streets, and cars, which resist easy change over time.

• Despite the apparent permanence of certain elements like buildings in a city, there are subtle shifts occurring that require interpretation.

• Urban situations reflect changes such as people leaving cities, leading to transformations in various parts of the world.

New Section

This section delves into significant changes happening in cities worldwide, including sinking cities and environmental impacts.

Transformations in Urban Environments

• Cities are experiencing population shifts with people moving away globally.

• Some cities are sinking and facing extinction before rising sea levels inundate them.

• Regions like the southern United States witness sinkings due to excessive extraction leading to dramatic events like houses collapsing.

• Excessive water extraction causes voids beneath structures, contributing to collapses seen notably in Miami.

New Section

The discussion focuses on environmental management practices in the Americas compared to other regions globally.

Environmental Challenges and Land Management

• The Americas have been harshly criticized for their land, water, and air management practices compared to Europe or Asia.

• Regions like the U.S. and Brazil possess vast lands but face negative consequences from construction practices driven by a sense of innocence regarding environmental impact.

• Human actions have led to significant land alterations due to excessive extraction without considering long-term consequences.

New Section

This part emphasizes the need for increased awareness and responsibility towards sustainable land use practices globally.

Sustainable Land Use Practices

• Negative outcomes stem from construction methods lacking consideration for environmental impact or sustainability.

• A sense of innocence has historically shielded individuals from recognizing their role in environmental degradation; however, this mindset must shift towards greater awareness.

Reconstruction and Recovery Efforts in Cities

The discussion revolves around the importance of tree planting in cities for improving air quality, enhancing various aspects of life, and the necessity for individuals knowledgeable about managing nature within urban settings.

Importance of Tree Planting

• Trees are crucial for improving air quality and various elements of life.

• They operate on their own rhythms that positively impact survival amidst human-induced destruction.

• Local governments play a significant role in managing nature within cities, requiring expertise to handle challenges effectively.

Innovations in Urban Development: Lessons from Japan

Insights into Japan's innovative urban development strategies, emphasizing sustainable practices and effective crisis management related to environmental challenges.

Urban Innovations in Japan

• Japan has made significant innovations in city recovery and maintenance by using appropriate materials.

• Despite limited space for planting due to geographical constraints, Japan excels in sustainable urban development.

• Japanese cities serve as models for confronting unique challenges through impressive innovations.

Environmental Challenges Faced by Different Cities

Discussion on how cities like Buenos Aires face water-related challenges while others struggle with water scarcity due to environmental degradation.

Diverse Environmental Challenges

• Cities like Buenos Aires must address sea-related changes seriously.

• Interior regions face water scarcity due to depleted water sources and chemical pollution from various activities.

• Countries like Japan and European nations excel in managing environmental issues compared to others like the United States and Mexico.

Global Environmental Responsibility

Reflecting on the urgent need for global action towards environmental conservation given varying approaches across continents.

Global Environmental Concerns

• The Americas have historically treated environmental issues alarmingly compared to Europe's proactive measures.

• There is substantial work needed globally to address environmental degradation effectively.

Welcome and Introduction of Professor Javier Valbuena

In this section, Professor Javier Valbuena is introduced. He is an architect with a master's degree in environmental management for sustainable development from Javeriana University and a master's degree in habitat from the National University of Colombia. His interests lie in various aspects related to human-environment relationships.

Professor Valbuena's Background and Interests

• Professor Valbuena has worked as a teacher, researcher, and in extension activities at several higher education institutions in Bogotá.

• His focus areas include urban materiality, building construction, sustainability, political ecology of habitat, solidarity organizations' relationship with urban environments, and environmental management of urban territories.

Discussion on Professor Sasen's Conference on Latin American Cities

This part delves into the discussion surrounding Professor Sasen's conference on how to think about Latin American cities based on her input and Professor Valbuena's perspective.

Key Considerations by Professor Valbuena

• Understanding the economic emphasis in Professor Sasen's work on global cities like New York, London, and Tokyo during the 1980s.

• Highlighting that while Latin American cities globalized economically, they did not become true global cities like those studied by Sasen.

• Emphasizing that Sasen focuses on transnational economic processes rather than socio-spatial issues within these three major global cities.

• Discussing the importance of socio-spatial problems not being central to Sasen’s work but serving as an intriguing entry point for further exploration.

Exploring Perspectives on Urban Thinking from Latin America

This segment delves into redefining urban thinking from a Latin American standpoint beyond geographical references to contribute globally while considering local-global dynamics.

Insights by Professor Valbuena

• Viewing cities not just as physical entities but also as sites for conceptualization and contribution to global discussions.

• Arguing against viewing global and local spaces as separate entities but rather as interconnected realms shaping each other through mutual forces.

• Introducing the concept of "friction" to depict social interactions between local and global spheres instead of perceiving them as conflicting levels.

Detailed Analysis of the Concept of Global Cities

In this section, the speaker delves into the concept of global cities, tracing its historical roots and discussing the factors that contribute to a city being classified as global.

Emergence of the Global City

• The discussion focuses on Professor Sassen's proposition regarding thinking about cities from a new perspective.

• Emphasis is placed on understanding cities through a category she introduces, particularly in light of significant changes occurring globally.

Historical Context and Development

• The concept of the global city originated in the 1980s, marked by rapid interstate development primarily involving nation-states.

• Various changes such as privatization, deregulation, and increased international market participation reshaped economies globally during this period.

Impact on National Economies

• The shift towards globalization led to a reevaluation of strategic territories and economic actors' roles within national markets.

• Privatization, deregulation, and increased international market access were key components influencing national economies worldwide.

Evolution of Urban Systems

• A reconfiguration of territorial significance occurred due to advancements in technology and information processes.

• This transformation resulted in a shift towards global interconnectedness while simultaneously weakening traditional national structures.

Understanding Cities Through a Global Lens

This segment explores how Professor Sassen defines global cities and distinguishes them from other urban categories based on their dynamic nature within transnational networks.

Definition of Global Cities

• Professor Sassen introduced the concept of global cities in 1984 as distinct entities with evolving characteristics.

• Unlike "world cities," global cities are defined by their adaptability and potential for change within transnational urban networks.

Characteristics and Significance

• Global cities like London, New York, and Tokyo serve as hubs within extensive urban systems characterized by specialized transnational services.

• The growth of these cities does not diminish their reliance on local resources but rather enhances their importance both locally and globally.

Local vs. Global Dynamics

• Despite their global connectivity, global cities maintain strong local ties crucial for sustaining economic activities.

Global City as an Economic and Regulatory Platform

The discussion delves into defining a global city as an economic and regulatory platform that encompasses all necessary capabilities to enhance operations.

Defining a Global City

• Marks left in the local area related to "censored with c and s."

• Expanding on the concept of a global city as an economic and regulatory platform.

• Importance of focusing on how cities operate, particularly in terms of "censored with c versus censored with s."

• Reflecting on personal experience in Toronto regarding "censored with s" and "censored with es."

Innovative Museum Strategies for Urban Engagement

Exploring innovative strategies employed by museums for engaging visitors and transforming spaces.

Museum Strategies

• Visiting the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada.

• Unique experiences within the museum, including additional costs for specific areas.

• Transformation of museum space during special events like Friday night raves.

• Observations on changing dynamics within the museum environment during events.

Enhancing Visitor Experience Through Interactive Exhibits

Discussing interactive exhibits enhancing visitor experience through close engagement with artworks.

Interactive Exhibits

• Offering visitors the opportunity to select artworks for closer examination.

• Personal encounter with Picasso's artwork at a museum exhibit.

• Emphasizing non-exclusive strategies for urban management and sensory engagement.

Reimagining Cities as Inhabited Habitats

Proposing a new perspective on cities as inhabited habitats, integrating social relations and architectural elements.

Urban Perspective Shift

• Introducing the concept of cities as processes of inhabited habitats.

Desafíos Actuales en la Planificación Urbana

The discussion delves into the interplay between citizens' actions in urban living and the city's habitat, emphasizing the significance of intersubjectivity, social relations, and the interaction between intersubjectivity and physical space.

Intersubjectivity and Urban Habitat

• Translation not about languages but understanding our city processes.

• Urbanizing technologies pose challenges exemplified by exclusive cities like Masdar and Songdo.

• Financial freedom in building exclusive cities raises issues of exclusion in urban living.

Exclusivity in City Design

• Masdar and Songdo are exclusive settlements within cities, catering to the wealthy.

• Massive economic investments lead to exclusivity, disconnecting ownership from actual living.

Challenges of Global vs. Local Urban Living

The discourse explores the dichotomy between global influences and local inhabitants' significance in shaping urban habitats, highlighting the importance of diversity as a key asset in Latin American cities.

Global vs. Local Dynamics

• Emphasizes "local" as not just physical location but inhabitants shaping city essence.

• Latin American cities excel in local urban living experiences despite potential weaknesses on a global scale.

Valuing Diversity in Cities

• Professor Sasen stresses valuing diversity as a crucial aspect of Latin American urban landscapes.

• Reflecting on whether enough value is placed on local diversity when envisioning cities.

Maximizing Intelligence for Urban Governance

Addressing current challenges for local governments involves maximizing intelligence through practical approaches rather than theoretical concepts, focusing on understanding urban practices before formulating knowledge.

Practical Approach to Urban Governance

• Shift focus from maximizing intelligence to understanding and enhancing urban practices.

Latinoamericanas: The Fourth Element

In this section, the speaker delves into the concept of the city as a living laboratory for smart urban technologies, emphasizing the diversity within cities and different approaches to understanding and studying them.

Understanding the City as a Living Laboratory

• Professor Sasen views the city not just as an open space but as a place that accommodates a diverse range of people, highlighting the dichotomy between rich and poor.

• Cities like Songdo and Masdar exemplify wealthy poles in contrast to the diversity found in poorer areas within cities, shaping them into living laboratories for smart urban technologies.

Multiple Approaches to Studying Cities

• Viewing the city as an open space raises questions about its global significance, focusing on transnational economic processes rather than solely on physical urban structures.

• Three key approaches emerge: understanding the city as a spatial formation (architecture, urban planning), an economic-political entity (global city concept), and a site for cultural action.

Exploring Different Perspectives on Cities

This part delves into various epistemological approaches to studying cities, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary perspectives and citizen involvement in shaping urban spaces.

Epistemological Approaches to City Studies

• Scholars propose three main ways to approach studying cities: spatial formation analysis from architecture and planning, economic-political examination akin to Professor Sasen's global city concept, and viewing cities as sites for cultural action.

• These categories stem from studies influenced by actor-network theory, offering diverse lenses through which to understand urban environments beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Shifting Focus towards Urban Dynamics

• Emphasizing that cities are pre-existing objects requiring exploration through various lenses such as spatial formations or economic-political entities.

• Another perspective suggests viewing cities not as static entities but dynamic constructs shaped by ongoing practices of inhabitation that give rise to multiple interpretations of what constitutes a city.

Challenges in Understanding Urban Spaces

This segment highlights challenges in comprehending urban spaces due to their multifaceted nature and advocates for engaging with citizen-driven practices in redefining how we perceive and interact with cities.

Citizen-Centric Urban Studies

• Examining cities through citizen-driven actions reveals diverse interpretations of what constitutes a city beyond traditional academic frameworks.

• Examples like urbanization of nature or conceptualizing cities as multiple spaces underscore how interdisciplinary collaborations can enrich our understanding of urban dynamics.

Interdisciplinary Engagement for Holistic Urban Analysis

• Integrating disciplines like geography, archaeology, and relational urbanism offers new insights into how citizens actively shape their environments.

Discussion on the Impact of Technology on Cities

In this segment, the speaker reflects on the interplay between local and global perspectives when considering cities, emphasizing the importance of understanding how technology influences urban environments.

The Intersection of Local and Global Perspectives

• The speaker highlights that focusing solely on local or global aspects when thinking about cities may overlook the interconnected nature of urban spaces.

Incorporation of Technology in Urban Management

• Questions arise regarding the potential effects of progressively integrating technologies into city management processes.

Balancing Advantages and Disadvantages of Technology

• While acknowledging the benefits technology brings to urban development, concerns exist about its potential to detract from the essence and spirit of a city.

Technology's Role in Shaping Latin American Cities

Environmental Challenges in Urban Planning

The discussion revolves around the impact of environmental factors on well-being, particularly in urban areas, and the challenges faced in urban planning to address these issues effectively.

Strategies for Urban Planning

• Planning strategies need to consider segmenting and distributing cities to mitigate environmental risks.

• Balancing good and bad practices in urban planning is crucial for sustainable development.

• Reflecting on public policy failures like the Mocoa case highlights the importance of effective territorial planning.

Lessons from Urban Reconstruction

• Examining cases like Gramalote reveals the consequences of inadequate urban planning.

• The relocation of communities due to geological hazards underscores the necessity of proactive measures.

• Challenges arise during reconstruction efforts, emphasizing the need for coordinated governance and community involvement.

Environmental Considerations in Housing Projects

• Inadequate housing design can lead to discomfort and abandonment by residents.

• Understanding local lifestyles is essential for designing suitable housing solutions.

• Addressing environmental concerns requires a holistic approach integrating technical knowledge with community insights.

Promoting Sustainable Dialogue

• Fostering dialogue between technical expertise and local knowledge is vital for sustainable urban development.

• Collaborative platforms can facilitate interdisciplinary discussions for innovative solutions.

Urbanization vs. City Conceptual Difference

The discussion delves into the distinction between urbanization and a city, highlighting how they are not synonymous terms but rather interconnected processes with various actors involved.

Urbanization Process

• Urbanization is the process through which a city is created by multiple actors, including the state, private entities, community initiatives, and rural initiatives.

• Urbanization involves diverse actors shaping the urban landscape.

City Formation

• A city is the outcome of urbanization but encompasses more than just physical structures; it embodies social relationships and lifestyles.

• The city results from the process of urbanization.

Urban Influence Beyond Physical Space

• Urbanization extends beyond physical spaces to include lifestyle choices and societal interactions.

• Urbanization impacts individuals' ways of life beyond physical locations.

City Materiality and Immateriality

The conversation emphasizes that a city's essence transcends material aspects, encompassing mentalities and existential forms crucial for understanding urban dynamics.

Intrinsic City Characteristics

• Cities embody immaterial elements such as mentalities and ways of existence that shape their identity.

• Cities possess essential immaterial characteristics influencing their essence.

Formative Dialogues

• Engaging dialogues like these contribute significantly to understanding cities beyond material constructs.

• Dialogues like this enhance comprehension of cities' complexities.