The relationship between the inner world and the public space
melting the boudaries of the private and public
this research aims to tackle the question of how our psyché impacts the way we feel and act outside of our "rooms"
public space can be defined as any physical or virtual environment that is open and accessible to all members of society, encouraging free expression, interaction, and communal experiences.
They serve as neutral, inclusive environments where people of diverse backgrounds can coexist, fostering social interaction, civic engagement, and cultural exchange.
keywords
| public space, safe space, Mental health, language, private property, ownership, gentrification, urbanism, |
society and the public space
- impact of privatisation on the character of public space
- the paradox of privacy
- privacy became secrecy
- from space to no-space
- theory of decline of public space
- rules in public space and gentrification
Zone A comprises the shop’s foyer and the pavement directly in front of the entrance. This area is primarily used to store, as well as to showcase, merchandise. There are often saleswomen sitting on a staircase or plastic stool in this zone. Furthermore, the owners of food and tea stalls make use of the area to heat food and drinks. Zone B consists of the part of the pavement surrounding the water tap. Hence, all activities related to the usage of water, such as washing dishes, hair-washing, etc., are conducted here. Additionally, food stall owners expand seats and tables for their customers onto the pavement. Sometimes whole families have their meals on the pavement in front of their house. After the shop closes, the sidewalk is once again accessible to pedestrians. Zone C is located in between Zone B and the curb. It is mainly used as parking space for motorbikes and bicycles. Mobile food vendors also set up seats for their customers in this zone. Zone D is the curb. In the evening households put their garbage on the curb so that it will be picked up by the municipal waste collectors. Some households cover the curb in front of their entrance with a ramp in order to park motorbikes on the pavement. Zone E comprises the roadside. It constitutes the main field of action for mobile street vendors. Zone F represents the middle of the road; its actual function is to serve traffic. Yet, since the pavements are often barricaded, pedestrians must use the street. Furthermore, streets are frequently blocked by vehicles that stop on the street for loading and unloading.
"Hikikomori"
a term from Japan that describes individuals, typically young adults, who withdraw from society and isolate themselves, often remaining confined to their homes for months or even years. The word "hikikomori" (ひきこもり or 引き籠もり) translates roughly to "pulling inward" or "social withdrawal."
Hikikomori is a multifaceted issue that reflects the intersection of individual mental health challenges, cultural norms, economic factors, and the changing nature of social interaction in a highly connected, digital world.
Key Characteristics and Causes of Hikikomori
- Social Isolation: Hikikomori individuals may spend the majority of their time in a single room, with minimal or no interaction with family members or friends. They often avoid going outside entirely.
- Emotional and Psychological Challenges: Many who experience hikikomori struggle with anxiety, depression, or intense social fears. The isolation itself can both result from and contribute to these issues.
- Cultural Pressures: In Japan, social and academic pressures are intense, with a strong emphasis on conformity, success, and family expectations. For some, these pressures lead to withdrawal as a means of coping.
- Economic Factors: Japan’s challenging job market, particularly for young people, has also been linked to hikikomori. High unemployment rates and competitive entry into the workforce may contribute to feelings of failure and hopelessness, leading some to withdraw.
- Technological and Lifestyle Shifts: The internet, video games, and online communities provide alternative forms of interaction and entertainment, which can enable or even encourage a life spent indoors. Some individuals in hikikomori states find solace or connection in virtual spaces, which may further discourage them from seeking in-person social relationships.
Zone A comprises the shop’s foyer and the pavement directly in front of the entrance. This area is primarily used to store, as well as to showcase, merchandise. There are often saleswomen sitting on a staircase or plastic stool in this zone. Furthermore, the owners of food and tea stalls make use of the area to heat food and drinks. Zone B consists of the part of the pavement surrounding the water tap. Hence, all activities related to the usage of water, such as washing dishes, hair-washing, etc., are conducted here. Additionally, food stall owners expand seats and tables for their customers onto the pavement. Sometimes whole families have their meals on the pavement in front of their house. After the shop closes, the sidewalk is once again accessible to pedestrians. Zone C is located in between Zone B and the curb. It is mainly used as parking space for motorbikes and bicycles. Mobile food vendors also set up seats for their customers in this zone. Zone D is the curb. In the evening households put their garbage on the curb so that it will be picked up by the municipal waste collectors. Some households cover the curb in front of their entrance with a ramp in order to park motorbikes on the pavement. Zone E comprises the roadside. It constitutes the main field of action for mobile street vendors. Zone F represents the middle of the road; its actual function is to serve traffic. Yet, since the pavements are often barricaded, pedestrians must use the street. Furthermore, streets are frequently blocked by vehicles that stop on the street for loading and unloading.
