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Critical theory of smart city

Bär, Lidia (2018) Critical theory of smart city.

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Abstract:The following thesis analyzes rhetoric as a mean of ideology reproduction on the base of digital public rhetoric of Hamburg’s government on smart city agenda. With the aim to grasp the precise reproduction mechanisms of ideology and research its effects and functions, an innovative interpretative analysis of used empty signifiers was conducted. Works by Horkheimer & Adorno (1944/2006), Žižek (2006) and interpretations of Lacan (Hillier & Gunder, 2005) served as background for the research, which enriched the already existing set of smart city critique. This analysis showed that hegemonic ideology is reproduced by culture industry and indicates tendencies to implement instrumental reason, to harmonize the existing social and economic contradictions and mainly reproduces economic interests. Since the studied rhetors are as politicians in power to materialize their ideological convictions, the mystification of technology plays a crucial role as disciplining and controlling measure, which aims to stabilize and justify status quo and maintain the existing inequalities. Derived rhetoric elements, which indicate categorization of citizenship and reductionism of environmental issues demonstrate the high societal relevance of the study and emphasize the urgent need for critique on progressing urban digitalization.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:70 social sciences in general, 74 (human) geography, cartography, town and country planning, demography, 88 social and public administration, 89 political science
Programme:Management Society and Technology BSc (56654)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/75719
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