Public Space
To what extent do you agree with Mike Davis’ argument that crime control programmes driven by citizen fear are destroying accessible public space? The concept of public space is idealized in the image of a site where the public encounter each other without social cultural or economic backgrounds creating a barrier. This concept is embodied in the romanticized images of the street, which ‘symbolises public life, with all its human contact, conflict and tolerance’ (Boddy 1992:123). A more realistic view of the street and public space is that social barriers always occur and it is the balance of power within society which decides how diverse and “public” these spaces are. It can also be seen as a place of liberation and political reform where people can stand up as women, blacks, gays or lesbians and exert their freedom and stand up for their beliefs and it is this right to have public space which has been drawn into question. Other places which are seen as public spaces include libraries, free to access by all, parks, and then the slightly ominous supermarkets and shopping centres. ... Mike Davis’ thesis on urban public space is argued with the example of Los Angeles in his book ‘City of Quartz’, first published in 1990. ... Davis appeals to Frederick Law Olmstead’s conception of “public landscapes and parks as social safety-valves, mixing classes and ethnicities in common recreations and enjoyments”. He looks at LA as an example of a city which has privatized public space and in doing so created social segregation. ... The exterior creates a menacing image of a space which is meant to be a focus and most importantly accessible to the public. ... The other way in which the public space is restricted is in the more multi functioned road furniture. ... Private security in residential areas is not uncommon and security cameras and continuous fencing cement the perception of the public space of the street being lost. ... With such controlled regulation of space freedom is very limited and it is this lack of freedom that keeps being drawn on in the chapter. ... The sloping bus seats and the public toilets which remain permanently wet and open if you remain inside for longer than five minutes. ... Because I am not a targeted minority using this type of public facility and they still fulfil the role I use them for.