The Sociology of Space: Materiality, Social Structures, and Action

by Martina Löw

In this book, the author develops a relational concept of space that encompasses social structure, the material world of objects and bodies, and the symbolic dimension of the social world. Löw’s guiding principle is the assumption that space emerges in the interplay between objects, structures and actions. Based on a critical discussion of classic theories of space, Löw develops a new dynamic theory of space that accounts for the relational context in which space is constituted. This innovative view on the interdependency of material, social, and symbolic dimensions of space also permits a new perspective on architecture and urban development.

330 pages, Hardcover

Published September 9, 2016

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a reference book for social scientists. I usually only read electronic books and rarely buy printed copies. For this one I’ll buy a hard copy when an affordable one is available.

This book is Löw’s habilitation thesis after she did a PhD on the same concept. Its aim is nothing less than the reconceptualisation of the concept of space in sociology. And she is successful at that, judging by my humble understanding of the subject.

This is a difficult book to read. It takes time to get familiar with the jargon and the style of the translator–the book is translated from the German and is now also available in French. But understanding this one book is key to understanding a lot of other books and papers using the concept of space. Ot pays, that is.

[• Domeniko • · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25