Architecture of fear

Nan Ellin

Architecture of Fear examines the ways in which the contemporary landscape is shaped by a preoccupation with fear, as apparent in home design, security systems, gated communities, semi-public spaces, zoning regulations, and cyberspace. This fixation manifests itself in such efforts as providing public parks but controlling the access of the homeless to these parks, or building gated communities in ever-increasing numbers despite the evidence that they do not lesson crime. The essayists in Architecture of Fear explain that such disjointed efforts exacerbate rather than eradicate the sources of fear and insecurity. Thus, in contrast to alarmist treatments, the contributors offer level-headed suggestions for proaction, not reaction, to counter both real and perceived problems in contemporary society.

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