"Inanimate matter is not inert. Everything is always doing something" - Morgen Meis, 2023
In the realm of architecture and urban design, the relationship between humans and the built environment often takes centre stage. However, what if we were to shift our focus to include the agency of inanimate objects and the vitality of matter itself?
Drawing inspiration from Taoist philosophy and the work of Jane Bennett, a philosopher with a keen interest in the vibrancy of non-human entities, we can explore new perspectives on spatial practices and design principles. Join me on a journey to discover how embracing the vitality of matter can inform architecture, urban design, and spatial practices.
Jane Bennett's "Thing Power":
Jane Bennett's concept of "thing power" challenges the traditional view of inanimate objects as passive entities devoid of agency. Instead, Bennett suggests that objects possess a certain vitality or influence that can shape human behaviour and interactions with the environment. In the context of architecture and urban design, this perspective encourages designers to consider the agency of materials and elements within the built environment. By acknowledging the vibrancy of matter, architects can create spaces that resonate with life and energy. (Meis, 2023)
During one's childhood is where the concept of objects having agency sounds more familiar. Where we feel connected to a specific shirt, toy, or stuff animal and it no longer becomes a simple object or another random "thing". It becomes ours, there is a sense of belonging and bonding just because you allow it, you acknowledge it. (Meis, 2023)
"A force of nature is obviously just the opposite of an inert actor" (Latour, 2015/2017, pp. 52–53)
With that note, we must stop restricting agency to human actors and understand the contribution of things, good or bad. When admitting that things have agency and power you can then regain control. This is how Marie Kondo mastered the art of decluttering with her KonMari methods of organization. She helps people regain their agency and control over the material things.
“Life truly begins only after you have put your house in order.” – Marie Kondo
In her KonMari method, she encourages tidying by category rather by location. "Keeping only the things that speak to the heart" as Kondo says. It is an effective philosophy because it allows "Hoarders" to acknowledge, admit, and make peace with objects and things that no longer "speak to the heart". (Kondo, 2024)
The Taoist Perspective:
At the heart of Taoist philosophy lies the concept of the Tao, or the Way, which emphasizes living in harmony with the natural order of the universe. This principle of alignment with the Tao finds resonance in architecture and urban design, where the built environment can either complement or disrupt the natural landscape. By embracing Taoist principles, architects and urban planners can strive to create spaces that flow seamlessly with their surroundings, promoting a sense of balance and tranquillity. (Meis, 2023)
Taoist philosophy encourages a deep connection with nature, viewing the natural world as a source of wisdom and inspiration. In architecture and urban design, this means integrating elements of nature into the built environment and creating spaces that evoke a sense of harmony and tranquillity. Whether through biophilic design principles, green infrastructure, or sustainable building practices, architects can foster a renewed appreciation for the natural world within urban landscapes. (National Geographic Society, 2023)
In Taoist philosophy, the concept of Yin and Yang represents the complementary forces of darkness and light, receptivity and activity. In architecture and urban design, achieving a balance between these opposing forces is essential for creating harmonious and dynamic spaces. By embracing contrasts and finding equilibrium between different elements, architects can design environments that stimulate the senses and engage the human spirit. (National Geographic Society, 2023)
This could also be used to explain the two complementary concepts of moving and inert "things". Where the "thing" can affect the user -here being the human- only if the user allows it to by observing, interacting, or simply acknowledging it.
Practical Applications:
How can these philosophical principles be translated into tangible design strategies? From the use of sustainable materials and passive design techniques to the creation of flexible and adaptable spaces, architects and urban planners can draw upon Taoist philosophy and Bennett's concept of "thing power" to inform their practice. By prioritizing harmony, balance, and vitality in their designs, they can create spaces that not only serve functional purposes but also enrich the human experience.
As we reflect on the intersections between Taoist philosophy, Jane Bennett's "thing power," and the field of architecture and urban design, we are reminded of the profound influence that the vitality of matter can have on our built environment. By embracing these principles, architects and urban planners can create spaces that resonate with life, energy, and harmony, fostering a deeper connection between humans, nature, and the built environment. In doing so, they contribute to the creation of more sustainable, resilient, and enriching urban landscapes for generations to come.
REFERENCES
Jeffery, D. (2003). The yin-yang symbol. [Online]. In UNLV. https://www.physics.unlv.edu/~jeffery/astro/constellation/yin_yang.html
Kondo, M. (2024). About the KonMari Method – KonMari | The Official Website of Marie Kondo. In konmari.com. https://konmari.com/about-the-konmari-method/
Latour, B. (2017). Facing Gaia (pp. 52–53). John Wiley & Sons. https://grattoncourses.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/bruno-latour-facing-gaia-eight-lectures-on-the-new-climatic-regime.pdf (Original work published 2015). Translated by Catherine Porter.
Meis, M. (2023, February 28). The Philosopher Who Believes in Living Things. The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/culture/annals-of-inquiry/the-philosopher-who-believes-in-living-things
National Geographic Society. (2023, October 19). Taoism. National Geographic. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/taoism/
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