Table of Content
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1.
Introduction
1.1
Problem Definition
1.2
Sub Questions
1.3
Motivation
1.4
Dimensions
1.5
Methodology
1.6
Delimitation
2.0
Shared Space
2.1
Definition of a Shared Space
3.0
Social Interaction
3.1
Body Language & Interaction
3.2
Theories of Body Language
3.3
Proxemics
3.4
The Four Distances
3.5
Cultural Considerations
4.0
Architectural Influence on Social Interaction in a Shared Space
4.1
Social Space versus Shared Space
4.2
The Social Norms associated with Shared Spaces
4.3
The Impact and Influence of Architecture
4.4
Genders in Spaces
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5.0
Introduction to Fieldwork conducted in Amagertorv & Axeltorv
11.0 Analytical Comparison of Axeltorv and Amagertorv
5.1
Amagertorv
11.1 Body language Trends
5.2
History of Amagertorv
11.2 Proxemic Patterns
5.3
Empirical work
6.0
Axeltorv
12.1 Architectural aspects
6.1
History of Axeltorv
12.2 Body Language
6.2
Empirical work
12.3 The Matter of Proxemics
7.0
Semiotics & Models of Communication
13.
Further research
7.1.
Semiotics of Body Language
7.2.
Alternative models of Communication
14.
Conclusion
7.3.
Application of Models of Communication and Semiotics 15.
Bibliography
12.0 Discussion
8.0
Architectural Analysis of Axeltorv and Amagertorv
9.0
Interpretation of Social Interaction in Amagertorv.
9.1.
Observations of Social Interaction
9.2
Body Language
9.3
Proxemics
16.
Source Criticism
17.
Summary in Danish
10.0 Interpretation of Social Interaction in Axeltorv. 10.1. Observations of Social Interaction 10.2 Body Language 10.3 Proxemics
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1.0) Introduction
discussion of the properties of these shared spaces is therefore necessary in order for one to gain a complete overview on the study of social interaction. In addition, it has
It is human nature to interact. Human beings interact with each other on a daily basis,
been argued that the proxemic behaviour 4 of an individual varies from one culture to
and many do so on a subconscious level. They do this with little or no concrete
another. As such, this piece of research also includes an investigation of the influence of
awareness of what their actions and those of others around them signify and imply.
cultural variations (on an urban / countryside base of comparison) upon interaction in
1
shared spaces.
Phenomena such as these are what have inspired us to take a deeper look into the
trends/study of social interaction in the modern day society.
There is growing interest in the function and significance of body language as a process
1.1) Problem definition
central to human interaction. In today’s modern society, a fair deal of emphasis is placed upon the question of self image and other popular topics such as the significance of physical appearance as factors that can be explicative of the process of social interaction. Our aim is to gain more insight into human interaction, focusing in brevity on body language and proxemics as a subset of this process. Many researchers point out that in the process of social interaction, words alone do not provide a solid indication of the entire picture and that body language and proxemics plays a key if not unrecognized role
This project aims to investigate how a shared space influences interaction between people. The influence of architectural dynamics is one of great importance when investigating social interaction in a shared space. A discussion of different forms of architecture and planning of two public spaces has been conducted in order to examine how this can change the norms of the space. Different cultural trends and patterns must also be taken into account when analyzing the interaction of people in a shared space.
in the discourse. 2
Another aspect of social interaction is the role of shared spaces in which this interaction
1.2) Research questions
takes place. Therefore it is significant to consider whether the architectural and spatial dynamics of public spaces have some sort of identifiable effect on interaction within
What is a shared space and how is it expressed through its architecture?
them. Different behavioral discourses are related to different types of shared spaces, whether or not these discourses take place as a conscious or inadvertent process. 3 A
In what ways are body language and proxemics expressed in shared spaces and does this differ from a given public space in a city to a given public space in a countryside
1 2 3
Charles Darwin: The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals (1872 Borg, John. Body Language: 7 Easy Lessons to Master the Silent Language. Prentice Hall life, 2008 et al ^ Lefebvre, Henri The Production of Space, Blackwell 1991, ISBN 0631181776. p. 59
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4
Proxemics is the study of set measurable distances between people as they interact, Hall, Edward T. (1966). The Hidden
Dimension. Anchor Books. ISBN 0-385-08476-5
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town ?
approach this project is by looking into the social interaction between human beings.
In what way does architecture influence social interaction in a shared space?
and proxemics into the picture. There is plenty of relevant methodology from the
Due to our focus on social interaction we have brought in the aspects of body language
dimension of text & sign that can be applied to the interpretation of the aforementioned Which norms are connected to a shared space and why?
concepts. In this regard, we intend to apply Roman Jakobson’s model of communication, and Pierce’s triadic system to our investigation. The application of the aforesaid models
1.3) Motivation
has been done in a rather specific fashion in this project, whereby we have adapted aspects of relevance from both models to specific contexts within the scope of our
Our common interest in this project is to explore how the architecture and settings of a
research. In other words these models focus rather emphatically on symbolism and
shared space influence social interactions. We would like to investigate how and why
semiotics in verbal and more often, with respect to written texts. We have, however,
people interact with other people and what role cultural differences play in these
adapted some of their propositions (in particular the notion of “sign”) to the context of
interactions. By looking at body language and proxemics we will be studying
communication via body language and to the study of proxemics. The aspect of body
intercommunications / interactions and hopefully get a better understanding of basic
language, a key component of human communication is covered rather well within the
human communication. The purpose of investigating this matter is to gain more
course of our research by elements of the text and sign dimension due to its postural /
awareness of how we, ourselves, interact with other people in shared spaces and thereby
non-verbal property which in essence allows it to be classified as a contextual process.
obtain a better understanding of human interactions in general. Cultural encounters:
1.4) Dimensions
This project is an attempt at comparing and contrasting two different cultures within Denmark, a town in the countryside, Næstved and the nation’s capital city, Copenhagen.
This assignment covers two dimensions of the basic studies in humanities program namely Text & Sign and Cultural Encounters
This very fact in itself implies a direct and fairly logical interest in the dimension of cultural encounters. Cultural encounters focuses on the concept of cultural identities. As such, one can use this dimension to analyze the cultural variations between the two urban centres that we will be comparing. This in turn will enable us to gain a more
Text and Sign: This dimension deals with the different aspects within text and Sign. One way to
concrete understanding of how these differences are represented through the manner in which interaction takes place in each urban centre. It’s important to stress that our focus is on cultural variations within Denmark (as opposed to cultural variations on a country
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to country scale)
study of measurable distances between people as they interact, a concept pioneered by Edward Hall that’s loosely hinged on the work of German zoologist Heini Heidger. 5
1.5) Methodology The following theories have been used in this project, though it’s important to note that The writing of this project draws its structural framework from two principle
we may have included additional theories:
standpoints. I)
Edward T. Hall’s model on Personal reaction bubbles, 1956
Empirical work (Fieldwork in the form of observation)
II)
Allan Pease’s zonal theory (an elaboration of Hall’s personal reaction bubbles)
Secondary research (Analysis of existent theory relevant to our study objectives)
III)
Roman Jakobsen’s model of communication
IV)
Charles Sanders Peirce’s triadic sign theory
Our empirical work has entailed an observation of human interaction in selected shared
V)
Kevin Lynch and his philosophy of the mental thoughts behind the construction
spaces, namely Copenhagen’s Amagertorv and Næstved’s Axeltorv. The deductions we
and planning of urban design and architecture
have arrived at have been drawn partly from observations on our part and partly from
VI)
video recordings filmed at the sites under discussion. Audio comments used in the
VII) Henri Lefebvre – His theories on studies of social norms and shared space.
Alexander R. Cuthbert - His work and studies about genders in architecture
filming process representing our own views and thoughts have been omitted in order to preserve more objectivity and to create consistency between our textual descriptions of
1.6 Delimitation
our video footage and the happenings within this footage. Repetitive visits to the shared spaces under investigation were made with the purpose of increasing the likelihood of
Vast subjects such as social interaction, behavior in public spaces have many varied
tangible trends germane to the scope of our research being identified. Additionally, the
aspects that one can analyse and discuss in considerable depth. Such expansive topics
basic underlying conditions (weather, time of visit etc…) at our research sites were
had to be shortened so that the scope of the investigation could be clear, accessible and
different upon each visit and this again aids the construction of as neutral and as
not too dispersive. Narrowing down our research aims entailed the elimination of a few
objective an analysis as possible
factors that may well have proven to be influential to the overall outcomes of our observations had we chosen to account for them in more profundity. A list of the
The theories that we have decided to employ in the writing of this project are based
principle factors that were not discussed in as much depth as other factors we considered
principally on the concepts of proxemics and communication. Proxemics is simply the
5
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, Hall, Edward T. (1966). The Hidden Dimension. Anchor Books. ISBN 0-385-08476-5
of more relevance to our research follows:
fascinating if not valid angle of research. However, exploration of this issue would transform the scope of our work into a completely different concept to that we intended
– Culture ( no cross-border comparison was conducted insofar as our research was
to investigate.
limited to a local basis of comparison ) – History and technology
Our forays into the effect of culture upon proxemics and body language have also been
– Gender in spaces (This is in term of gender interaction)
limited inasmuch as this project not focusing on issues such as the religious affiliation
– Religion (the expression of religion in shared spaces, it’s role in semiotics / behavioral
and ethnic makeup of the subjects used for our analysis. In this concern, cross-border
trends was omitted from our research)
cultural observations have been omitted, however useful and easy to identify and
– Age (little or no emphasis was placed on the effect of age upon the scope of our
employ in our research they be or may not be.
research) – Engagement through events (Alteration of norms related to social interaction in shared
The role and significance of human social interaction on a historical scale is also briefly
spaces by interventionary events has not been covered)
explored but perhaps could have been researched in more depth. It could have been
– Literacy (i.e. education of subjects filmed did not factor into our observations)
interesting to examine how social interaction has developed and changed through
– Technological advancement
centuries and how the past is expressed in the trends of present day human interaction.
As such, this project hasn’t focused on the influence the personal background and
2.0) Shared Space
attributes (factors such as age, gender and literacy) of the individuals analysed plays in the manner in which they interact with each other. Whilst architectural dynamics play a
What is a Shared Space?
pivotal role in the process of human interaction, our treatment of the subject has zeroed in on what effect (s) specific forms of urban planning and architecture have upon social
An adequate understanding of the findings and evaluations of this project hinges in
interaction, as opposed to an exploration of architecture and architectural dynamics as a
considerable depth upon the comprehension of what space is. As such, a basic
whole. Moreover, this piece of research has not investigated the influence of technology
comprehension of the fundamental properties of this concept is crucial. In similar vein, it
plays on people’s interaction. Media and modern mass communication in today’s
is important to distinguish between the concept of space and that of place.
globalised world have a huge impact on how humans socialize and connect with each other and as such, an observation of how technological development that could aid the evolution and effect of media and modern mass communication could indeed be a
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Space
feature patterns. However, some territorial boundaries can vary and are thus classified as semi fixed-features.
The Oxford English dictionary describes space as a continuous area or expanse which is
Semi fixed-feature space
free, available, or unoccupied. 6
This space contains movable objects, like mobile furniture, while fixed-furniture is a fixed-feature.
This space can either be absolute (i.e. a distinct, real and objective space) or relative (i.e.
Informal space.
space as perceived by a particular individual or society) Space is a rather abstract notion
This space contains the individual space around the body, travels around with it,
in that it adheres to no fixed geometrical classifications. On a biological basis however,
determining the personal distance among people. It contains spatial patterns that form
it may be argued that space is a universal construct which all humans view in the same
distances that are for the most part outside awareness. 8
light. Notwithstanding, the perception of the concept of space varies from one culture to another and therein different societies use space in different fashions, technologically,
Place
artistically and practically, a postulation that is supported by the research of E. Sapir and B. Whorf as well as by the philosophies of Henri Lefebvre. 7 Spatial use is hence the
Space, it is argued is not an autonomous notion in that it has some sort of relationship to
fundament upon which societies construct both formal entities such as enumeration
time. 9 Hence, human activities and actions occur within the space-time continuum.
districts and informal structures such as neighborhoods. Shared space is therefore an
Whilst this frame remains an unalterable constant in that space and time are constants,
area or expanse that is to be shared by those who frequent such a space. The population
the subject of place is one that can be changed and even tailored by human activity. This
density of a particular space is a key factor in determining the dynamics of the sharing
is a view supported by Tuan who describes space as a notion akin to a blank sheet of
that takes place with that space. The manner by which man interacts with the space he
paper upon which meaning may be imposed. Enclosed and humanized space can therein
finds himself in concerns itself with the classification of 3 fundamental classifications of
be defined as place. This holds true with respect to the definition of place as being an
types of space.
area with definite or indefinite boundaries; a portion of space. 10 These boundaries are
Fixed-feature space
what Lefebvre refers to in his descriptions of “bounded space” a reference to the notion
This space contains objects that are immobile, such as walls and territorial boundaries. It
of place inasmuch as the concept fulfils the condition of it being an area of definite or
includes material manifestations as well as the hidden, internalized designs that govern behavior as man moves about on this earth. Buildings are one expression of fixed6 Oxford Online English Dictionary : http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0795350#m_en_gb0795350 7
8 Setha M. Low and Denise Lawrence-Zúñiga (2003). The Anthropology of Space and Place: Locating Culture. Blackwell Publishing. pp. 61–62. ISBN 0631228780. 9 D. Massey (Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers 24 271) 10
Oxford Online English Dictionary : http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0795350#m_en_gb0795350
H. Lefebvre The Production Of Space (1974, English pub. 1991)
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indefinite boundaries. One can therefore conclude that space is a concept with infinite
3.1) Definition of Body Language
bounds whilst place is concept with finite ones. Consequently, it can be argued that space becomes place as soon as bounds of some sort or other are introduced, for instance
The Russian theatre director, Constantin Stanislavsky once heralded body language as
if a specific function or purpose is implemented within a space. As such, places can be
being “the key that can unlock the soul.” On a more practical basis, body language can
constructed and cultivated within the bounds of the functional purpose intended.
be defined as the gestures, postures, and facial expressions by which a person manifests various physical, mental, or emotional states and communicates nonverbally with others. 12
. The role and importance of body language in everyday situations has become
3.0) Social Interaction
highlighted in recent years, as studies in the field of humanities and more specifically within the spectrum of linguistics continue to develop. Body language is in fact a
Interaction by definition can be elucidated as the direct effect of one kind or particle upon another.
11
This definition holds true with respect to the communicational
central if not crucial component of communication within society, a role that hasn’t as of yet been prioritized over verbal communication, the basis upon which the process of
exchanges between people in shared spaces, where people take the form of particles (i.e.
most conversations and communicational exchanges is constructed, at least as far as
entities) within the aforementioned definition. The effects people have on each other in
intentional communication is concerned. Leading researchers in the field of
their interaction in shared spaces aren’t processes of speech / verbal acts alone, but
anthropology have repeatedly stressed the influence of body language in the
rather a system of complex, intertwined linguistic patterns expressed through body
communication process, asserting that together with paralinguistic cues it accounts for
language, eye contact, facial expressions and so on. The nature of the public spaces
up to 93 per cent body of this process whilst only 7% of communicational processes
analyzed in this project is rather self explanatory. In the case of public spaces (as
consist of words alone. 13 The intentional communication referred to previously refers to
opposed to private spaces), the shared spaces in question impose a great deal of external
communication that is deliberately, consciously explicitly intended for a specific
influences upon those who find themselves within them and as such relations between
purpose, both from the perspective of the person sending the message and from the point
individuals interacting within the space can be assumed to be, as a rule of thumb,
of view of the receiver. Body language is in fact, in most cases, a non-intentional form
interpersonal. Such interpersonal relationships favour communication on a basis other
of communication inasmuch as it is an involuntary phenomenon and thereby a process
than verbal discourse, such as via body language, expressed in most cases as an
that is less easy to control than verbal communicational processes. To reiterate, body
involuntary process characterised by a series of identifiable classifiable signals.
language has been said to constitute the majority of the communicational processes between human beings, a view that is held by many within the field of linguistics. It is 12
11
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/interaction
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13
http://www.yourdictionary.com/body-language Borg, John. Body Language: 7 Easy Lessons to Master the Silent Language. Prentice Hall life, 2008
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worth mentioning however that due to the fact that body language is not expressed as
chief focus of our research leans more towards proxemics (see section 3.4)
overtly nor as clearly as verbal communication, determining its exact role and significance in communicational processes is somewhat difficult and hence a matter of
Like any communicational process, body language can be expressed in a donative as
intense debate in anthropological circles. The research of the American professor of
well as in a receptive fashion depending on a number of factors. Furthermore, the exact
psychology Albert Mehrabian ,for instance, supports the suggestion of body language
manner in which body language is expressed hinges on a number of variables within the
constituting the majority of the communication process, proposing that the total impact
environment or more specifically within the context under which interaction takes place.
of a message is about 7 per cent verbal (words only) 38 per cent of it is vocal (including
These variables include factors such as climate, crowding (and the concurrent responses
tone of voice, inflection and other sounds) and 55 per cent of it is non-verbal. 14 This is a
to it,) architecture (discussed in section 4,) and spatial dynamics (also covered in section
viewpoint seconded by the work of kinesics expert, Ray L. Birdwhistell who estimated
4.) Other aspects that could factor in include time related variables (time of month /
that the average person actually only speaks for a total of about ten or eleven minutes a
week / year etc.) and climatic dynamics (e.g. temperature extremes) The role of social
day and that the average sentence takes only about two and a half seconds. 15 Like
aspects such as cultural rules, language, laws, accords and so on are also highly
Mehrabian, Birdwhistell’s conclusions propose that the better part of communication
influential to the concept of body language.
between people takes place on a non-verbal basis.
3.2) Theories of Body Language The field of body language is rather expansive and highly detailed. Our research doesn’t delve into such significant detail on the topic, focusing instead on interaction between people as a whole. Body language in the context of this project is therein merely a subset of the aforementioned interaction process, a sub-component of the discussions pertaining to territory and proxemics that will be elaborated upon in the following section. Where possible, basic body gestures that have been said to exhibit specific intentions will be examined later on in this document albeit in an abstract fashion, as the 14 15
Allan Pease : ”Body Language” Camel publishing company 1981 Ray L Birdwhistell: Introduction to kinesics ,an annotation system for analysis of body motion and gesture
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3.3) Proxemics
activities thus also playing a key role in the dynamics of spacing. 17 Spacing in this context refers to the observable, measurable distances two members of a species
Social Interaction in Animals
maintain from each other in the course of their interaction. Heidiger identifies the presence of the following distances within the spectrum of animal relations:
The interaction of humans in shared spaces can be linked to comparative studies of animal interaction in spaces. Studies of animal interaction are rather useful in this
Flight distance: The distance that a wild animal will allow a man or other potential
regard as they can easily be conducted over the scale of several animal generations and
enemy to approach before it flees
as many animals don’t rationalise their behaviour, it is safe to assume that a degree of
Critical distance: The narrow space between flight distance from attack distance
consistency exists with respect to their reaction to specific stimuli. Behavioural trends can therefore be charted and used as a framework from which to analyse human
Heidiger also cites one of the most baffling dichotomies of the natural world, namely
behaviour albeit on a purely fundamental basis explicatory inasmuch as interaction
that of contact and non contact species. Contact species are those that huddle together
within species is concerned as opposed to specific interactional features and processes
and require physical contact which other (such as Emperor Penguins) whilst non-contact
that are directly and indisputably linked to the human race. The extension of population
species are those that completely avoid touching (such as rats.) Within the context of
biology and evolutionary theory to social organisation is known as sociobiology, 16and
interaction between non-contact species, Heideger proposes the existence of two central
whilst it does have its merits, in many respects, it’s vital that one considers the unique
spacing distances, namely
attributes of the human race that differentiates it from some characterestics that can be
Personal Distance (The spacing that non-contact animals maintain between themselves
applied to describe the nature of all species.
and their fellows) Social Distance (The distance that an animal maintains to the rest of the herd, flock,
As far back as 1920, ornithologists such as H.E Howard began to classify basic concepts
group etc‌)
within the field of animal behaviour. One of the concepts explored by his work was that of the abstraction of territoriality. The concept of territoriality within a species is,
Crowding & The development of sinks
according to the animal psychologist, H. Hediger a central regulatory feature for the species in question. Hediger is of the notion that territoriality regulates density within a
The effect of higher population density upon the behavioural trends of animal species is
species and as such provides a frame / context within which the species carries out its
an issue that has been extensively investigated and elaborated upon over the last century. The experiments of the ethologist John Calhoun on rats in the late fifties provide the
16
Wilson, E.O. (1978) On Human Nature, Cambridge, Ma: Harvard
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17
Edward T. Hall: The Hidden Dimension, 1966
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basis for many of the crowding theories zoologists and anthropologists alike have come
natural environment may not be as dramatic or certainly not as pronounced as the
to defend in this day and age. Calhoun’s research strived towards creating a situation
responses expressed by animal populations, it can be argued that the simple of notion of
within which it would be possible to observe the behavioural patterns of several wild
there being a direct link between crowding and behavioural trends in human populations
Norwegian rats in a quarter-acre outdoor enclosure from 1947 on at any given time.
holds true. The effects of crowding on interactional processes between members of any
Despite having unlimited food supplies and in the absence of predators, the population
given species is therefore an occurrence that can be applied in a sociobiological context
of rats never exceeded 200 individuals and stabilized at 150. The rats could in fact have
to the specific case of human interaction, as many parallels can be said to exist between
had up to 50,000 offspring over the course of Calhoun’s research yet available space
the effects of crowding in human populations and the consequences of the same in
would not have accommodated such a figure. Whenever the population of rats within
animal populations.
the colony increased to a point at which the colony could be described as being crowded, the sex mores of the rats were disrupted and pansexuality and sadism were endemic.
These basic reductions of animal behaviour form the backbone upon which the
Social behaviour amongst the male members of the population was also altered, such
assumptions with regard to spacing amongst humans that we have decided to structure
that fighting and fatal tail biting broke out. All in all a stressful if not chaotic state of
this document on are hinged. The distance dynamics as concerns man and his spacing to
affairs came into existence, a feature that Calhoun proposed was a natural regulatory
his fellow being is a topic with roots in the research of Edward T. Hall.
mechanism that ensured the survival of the species by maintaining population levels at a level that ensured that competition for resources wasn’t excessive. This regulatory mechanism became known as a sink and has been said to exist within numerous species on the planet, including the human race, a fact that is underscored by the outbreaks of endemic diseases such as the plague (which took place within the context of a dense, poorly-planned urban environment) and the general stressful patterns of urban areas in this day and age. 18 One can therefore hypothesise the existence of a direct link between the density of an animal population and the interactional trends within it. In this regard, the relationship between man and the space he moves in can be also said to be influenced by population density, and more specifically by the crowding within his immediate environment. Whilst it is fair to say that the effects of crowding within mans 18
John B. Calhoun, "Death Squared: The Explosive Growth and Demise of a Mouse Population" Proc. roy. Soc. Med. Volume 66 January 1973, pp80-88
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Proxemic Distances in Man
The distinction between the proxemic distances in animals as described by Heidger and those as concerns humans is that in animals, two distances are said to exist (namely the
Some thirty inches from my nose
flight distance and the critical distance whilst in human beings, four distances are said to
The frontier of my Person goes,
exist. Flight distance and critical distance it seems fair to say, have disappeared from the
And all the untilled air between
reactionary mechanisms of mankind and personal and social distance form the backbone
Is private pagus or demesne.
of social interactions within the human race. One easily accessible source of
Stranger, unless with bedroom eyes
information that supports Hall’s distance theories with respect to humans has roots in the
I beckon you to fraternize,
work of George Trager. In cooperation with the linguist, George Trager, Hall started to
Beware of rudely crossing it:
observe changes in voice in relation to different proxemic distances and settings.
I have no gun, but I can spit.
Bearing in mind whispering is the volume used in very short distances and shouting in long distances, Trager and Hall posed the question as to how many vocal shifts existed
W.H. Auden
between the two spatial extremes 21. Their research led to the assertion of the existence of
>>prologue:
eight different proxemic distances in man. However, further investigations of people
The Birth of Architecture<<
interacting in social situations led Hall to the conclusion that eight different proxemic distances were in fact too many as they were too complex and too intertwined to make
How many proxemic distances do people have and how do we differ between them?
sense of and that four distances were actually enough. He terms these four distances as
What is it that sets one particular distance apart from another?19 These are a couple of
following:
the questions that the biological anthropologist and cross-cultural researcher Edward T.
I)
Intimate distance
Hall asks in his book “The Hidden Dimension,” questions for which there are no direct
II)
Personal distance
nor easy to come by responses. Hall’s pursuit for answers to these queries formed the
III)
Social distance
backbone of his work in proxemics and his consequent definition of the word in 1966.
IV)
Public distance
Proxemics is exploration of a set of measurable distances between people as they interact.20 As mentioned in section 3.2 these proxemic distances can also be found in the
Each of the aforementioned distances is subdivided into a close phase and a far phase.
animal world and have been classified by the German zoologist Heini Heidger.
Hall himself states that the naming of these distances was made after lengthy
19 20
Edward T. Hall: the hidden dimension 1966. Page 107. Edward T. Hall: the hidden dimension 1966.
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21
1966 page. 108.
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Edward T. Hall: The Hidden Dimension .
consideration and contemplation, influenced to a significant degree by the work of Heidger. 22
3.4
The Four Distances
Before describing the four distances it's important to be mindful of the fact that the distances can vary in terms of people's personalities or the surroundings that people find
The Intimate Distance.
themselves in. In the intimate distance, the presence of the other person is unmistakable and at times even overwhelming. This is mainly due to the fact that sensory inputs are significantly enhanced within this distance. Sight is often distorted due to the proximity of one individual to another, olfactory sensations are sharp and enable for one to discern a wide range of scents given off by others and body heat emitted by others is also detectable within this proxemic distance. This leads to highly intimate interaction between one body and another, and concurrently has been described as the zone in which lovers and close friends can roam freely. 23
Close phase (less than 15 cm) This distance is known to feature eroticism, comfort, and protection. Hall talks of distance as being the phase where physical contact is at its highest. This use of physical contact is present in the mind of both parties. Muscle, pelvic, thigh and close facial communication constitute the peak of physical contact, giving rise to communicational exchanges such as kisses, embraces and so on. Vision in this phase is akin to that of newborn babies, infants and young children, whose field of sight and more specifically the ability to focus is impaired by their use of periphery vision. The detailed layout of features and objects viewed from such close proximity is stimulated rather extensively by the retina in such a way that objects that are outside of the direct field of vision are 22
Edward T. Hall: The Hidden Dimension. 1966 page. 110.
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23
Edward T. Hall: The Hidden Dimension. 1966 page. 110.
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excluded. Furthermore, the use of vocal sounds is be extremely limited since the
behaviour” characterised by use of the intimate distance in public on the part of lovers.26
communicative process mainly is carried principally out by other channels.24
This begs the question, what ought one do when forced to stand close to another person in any given situation such as on a bus or in a train? Public transport imposes
Far phase (15 to 46 cm)
circumstantial bounds that force people to break into each others intimate distances, irrespective of whether or not they know each other. In this regard, Hall points out that
This phase entails there not being any direct contact between the head, thighs and pelvis
human beings have certain defense mechanisms that we use to “cleanse” public intimate
despite them all being within grasping-distance. The head appears magnified and facial
spaces of any intimacy. The normal tactic is to stay as still as possible and move
expressions are distorted, so much so that the nose can appear to be oversized and
whenever the body comes into contact with other people. If this isn't possible, a person
distorted. The same is true of the appearance the lips, teeth and tongue. Hall makes a
will tend to keep the muscles frozen and tense in certain parts of the body. The same is
remark concerning this phase, when he speaks of Americans experiencing how
true of people standing in elevators. In this situation people have a tendency to stand
unwelcome foreigners penetrates this intimate sphere. He mentions that it is expressed
totally still and fixate their gaze endlessly and intensely upon specific objects, straying
through this distortion of the visual system. One of the individuals Hall used in his
only fleetingly to glance at the other people sharing the elevator.27 It is worth keeping in
proxemic research stated the following at a certain point during a particular interview :
mind that Hall’s observations were based on an American sample population and thus
“These people get so close, you're cross-eyed. It really makes me nervous. They put their
their relevance in a cross-cultural context needs to be considered as they are not
face so close it feels like they're inside you”25 This illustrates the discomfort many
necessarily universal traits and tendencies that manifest themselves in any given culture.
people may feel when their intimate distance is encroached upon, unwittingly or deliberately as the case may be. At a certain point within this distance intense optical
Personal distance:
focus becomes impossible, prompting an uncomfortable sensation in the eye-muscles, which occurs as a result of focusing on an object that is extremely close to the eye. This
The best way to describe this distance in a simple manner is to attach the concept of it
distance also entails that vocal levels are at a low, minimal volume.
being akin to a small personal bubble or protective sphere, which an organism maintains
At 15 – 45 cm distance vocal communication is put to use albeit in a very limited
between itself and others.28
capacity such that only a whisper or very low vocal tonality is heard. Hall mentions the notion of certain segments of middle class America taking offence to “improper
Close phase (46 to 76 cm)
26 24 25
Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 110. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 111 Quote: bottom of page.
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Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 111. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 112. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 112.
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“Closeness” is usually determined by what can be done with the arms and legs when
The expression “to keep someone at arm's length” is one way expressing the far phase of
one human being is placed next to another. At this distance one can hold or grasp
the personal distance. This is the last distance in which it is possible for one to touch and
another human being and there is no longer an unclear visual of the other person. There
/or dominate other human beings. This is also the distance within which it is possible to
is however, a perceptible amount of feedback from the eye muscles. A 15 degree tilt-
discuss subjects of personal interest or indeed subjects that one may feel involved in. At
view of another individual’s upper or lower facial features reveals unusually sharp,
this proxemic distance, head size is perceived as normal and facial features are clear if
highly-enhanced imagery. At this distance, the appearance of the nose may somewhat
not poignant. Minute facial details such as skin flaws, discoloured teeth, spots, wrinkles,
elongated and the ears seem drawn back. More minute facial features are also seen in
blemishes and so on are visible but only ever so slightly. This distance also entails that
more detail. These include finer facial hairs, eyebrows, eyelashes and skin pores. In
the eye has to wonder from body part to body part in order to look at the entire object
addition, at this distance, the three-dimensional quality of objects is significantly
and thus gain perspective 31. Hall makes an interesting remark with regard to this, stating
enhanced. This implies that facial structure is more pronounced and detailed at this
that “where the eye is directed is strictly a matter of cultural conditioning”. 32
distance than it is at any other proxemic distance. The placement of individuals alongside each other at this distance is a reflection of the relationship they have to each
Vocal audio levels at this distance are very moderate and body heat is not perceived.
other and also of their inner emotions. 29
Again, Hall tells us that when it comes to smell it depends on culture. Indeed in some cultures it is popular to create an air-bubble of scent with help from eau de cologne or
Hall hypothesizes that at this distance a married woman can stay within her husband’s
perfume. Moreover, whilst in some cultures the odour of ones breath is analyzed and
close personal distance without causing any offense. However, if another woman enters
interpreted as part of the normal, day-to-day discourse between one human being and
the husbands close personal distance it's an entirely different story30. One can therefore
another, in other cultures, for instance within modern day America, people are raised to
conclude that if A, the spouse of B enters the close personal distance of B this would not
direct their breath away from people33.
be considered offensive, but if person C, a stranger, enters the same distance of either, this may be considered as an abnormal act. The applicability of this conclusion to
Social distance
modern day society is however somewhat dubious owing to the fact that Hall’s research on the matter was based on subjects from the 1950’s.
The limit between the far phase of the personal distance and the close phase of the social distance is referred to as the “limit of dominance”. The intimate visual details of the face
Far phase (76 to 120 cm)
are not perceived and there is no contact or expectations of contact with another human, 31
29 30
Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 113. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 113.
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32 33
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unless one makes a special effort to make contact. Sound levels at this distance are said
“stand away so I can look at you”. Business and social discourse that is conducted at the
to be normal. The close and far phase of this proxemic distance display similarities as
far end of the social distance has a more formal character than if it occurs inside the
regards vocal tones, levels and patterns. In this regard, conversations can be heard up to
close phase. In fact, some workplaces deliberately ensure that office desks are large and
and including a distance of about 6m. 34
superimposed in such a way that they can keep people who visit at a distance matching that of the far phase. 37At this far phase many of the small details in the face such as
Close phase (1.2 to 2.1 m)
intra-eye markings are virtually unobservable. Notwithstanding, all details concerning
At this proxemic distance, head size can be elucidated as normal. Eye movement away
colour, hair, teeth and clothes are easily seen. Hall mentions that none of his test-persons
from any given person in optical focus allows for a more total / complete view of this
said anything about body-heat and smell as being significant and this distance. All of the
person. Hall mentions specific eye movements that people tend to make when engaged
body and a great part of the surrounding space can be perceived at a panorama of 60
in conversation at this distance, stating that many Americans move their gaze from eye
degrees. Another aspect that changes at this distance is the focus point in the face (as an
to eye or from eyes to mouth. 35 Complexion and taint- related details are clear and
entire object.) As mentioned before people move their gaze from eye to eye or eye to
easily observable owing to the optical frame’s perspective on the entire body, as opposed
mouth. At this point however, the eyes and mouth of the person in front are in full view.
to on specific parts. People working together tend to interact within the close social
This means that it is no longer necessary for one to shift one’s gaze to different focal
proxemic distance. This is also a very common distance between people who are
points in the face. At this phase it is more crucial to maintain visual contact than at other
gathered at random social gatherings. To stand and look down on people sitting at this
distances.38 Which of course makes sense, in terms of the fact that the more physical
distance has a dominating effect which can be observed when a man talks to his assistant
contact and control one looses the more important it is to maintain visual control. The
or secretary36. Here again one comes across another example of Hall using outdated
individual therefore becomes more dependent on a singular sense (vision) so to speak.
references. If one were to draw a parallel between his example and modern day trends, it
Proxemic behaviour of this nature is highly determined by culture and is completely
may be worth considering applying the same way of thinking albeit in a less
random. To avoid looking at another person is to exclude him or her from all
discriminating fashion.
conversation. This is why people talking at this distance do everything within their power to maintain visual contact. In open space, there may be a tendency to over-stress
Far phase (2.1 to 3.7 m)
neck-muscles in order to keep other people in view by trying to block all obstacles in the way of the line of sight.39
This is the distance that has been commonly associated with the everyday expression
A proxemic trademark that can be observed at social distance (far phase) is that it can be
34
37
35 36
Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 114. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 114. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 114.
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38 39
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used to isolate and shield people from each other. It allows one to continue to work in
Thirty feet is usually the distance that is automatically set around important public
the presence of another person without appearing to be rude. Receptionists working in
figures. An example on this can be seen when presidents make speeches.
offices are particularly vulnerable in this respect as most employees expect double duty execution on their part; answering questions, being polite to callers, as well as typing.
3.5) Cultural Considerations
The same is true for husbands. Hall says that husbands returning from work often find themselves sitting and relaxing reading the paper at ten or more feet from their wives,
The manner in which people use space and therein the fashion by which they interact
for at this distance a couple can engage each other briefly and disengage at will.
with each other depends on a great many factors. Cultural settings play a fundamental role in this respect, as the work of many anthropologists has shown over the years.
Public distance
Edward T. Hall has in fact suggested that the dynamics of interactional processes between people is distinctly different from one culture to another. The work of the
Several important sensory shifts occur in the transition from the personal and social
aforementioned researcher in the field of proxemics is therefore merely a guideline to
distances to public distance, which is well outside the circle of involvement.
the subject as a whole, based on the mean and collated results of a survey based on the reactions of a specific number of people. That notwithstanding, Hall’s research remains
Close phase
the principle basis by which proxemics are analysed and it is fair to state that more
At twelve feet it is possible for a person to take evasive or defensive action if threatened.
culture-specific proxemics models ought to have been developed in order to account for
Vocal audio at this distance is loud but at not full-volume. Linguists have observed that a
the limitations of his work. One can therefore hypothesise that Hall’s work within
careful choice of words and phrasing of specific sentences as well as grammatical or
proxemics could indeed be relevant to a specific case (such as the research carried out in
syntactic shifts occurs at this phase40. At this distance the fine details in the face and in
this project) yet at the same time, it is worth considering other factors that could yield
the eyes are no longer visible. At about sixteen feet the body begins to lose its
variations in the fashion by which people interact with each other. Halls own words on
“roundness” or three dimensional appearance as it were and starts to appear more flat.
the matter are that his descriptions “ represent only a first approximation and that it
The colour of the eye begins to be unperceivable such that only the whites of the eyes
should be emphasized that these generalisations are not representative of human
are visible.41
relations in general or even of American behaviour in general- but only of the group included in the sample. Negroes and Spanish Americans as well as people who come
Far phase 40 41
Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 117. Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 117.
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from Southern European cultures have very different proxemic patterns” 42 It could be
42
Edward T. Hall: The Hidden Dimension, 1966 page 110
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argued hence that the proxemic patterns we identify in the shared spaces examined in
surroundings that they find themselves in and says that a loud level of noise or
this document may have very different and disparate trends and that these differences
dampened illumination will bring people closer together and therefore change the
could be directly linked to the governing cultures within the spaces in question. It’s vital
pattern in which they behave.45 This is of course important to have in mind when
to consider that the shared spaces examined over the course of writing this project are
looking upon how architecture influences the way we act. The place that we find
part and parcel of the same overreaching predominant culture (i.e. Danish culture.)
ourselves in might indeed play a bigger role than we know in terms of how we interact
Notwithstanding, one can identify a sub-culture or even clusters of sub-cultures within a
with other as human beings.
culture, each with its own distinct cultural dynamics. Based on these premises one might therefore argue that Næstved and Copenhagen have their own distinct culture and
4.1
Social Space versus Shared Space
that this may be expressed in the interactional patterns, proxemics, architecture, spatial dynamics and so on within spaces and places in these cities. Focusing on Amagertorv in Copenhagen (city setting) and Axeltorv in Næstved (countryside town setting,) this part of the paper aims to investigate in some depth the
4.0) Architectural Influence on Social Interaction in a Shared Space
differences one may find, according the social space and the shared space, based on the observations that has been made and accounted for in part 6 and 7 in this paper.
“The architect does more than just design the building: he or she shapes the activity that goes on in it and the community around it, (Desley Luscombe) 43
When considering the theories put forth by Edward T. Hall one frequently comes across him stating that at some point that one can interlink specific sets of relations and activities with the way people behave.44 This assertion falls under the chapter of his
The French sociologist, intellectual and philosopher Henri Lefebvre encourages the consideration of the city as a space which is fashioned, shaped and invested in by social activities during a historical period, which is under a continuous development. Cities have been created by people and in some ways the constant development of the cities cam be seen as a never ending work of art. 46
postulations concerning room dynamics. Hall talks about sequences of acquired
If we go back in history one finds that many ancient civilizations had different kinds of
situation-personalities, stating that some people never develop the official phase of their
cultural locations that were used in the matter of organising social space. For instance,
situational personality and therefore cannot fill out public space. He observes that with
the Greeks had the agora, the theatre, the polis and the stadium. More often than not it
regard to the four distances, people’s differences in personality can vary in terms of the 45
43 44
Urban design: http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Urban+design
46
Edward T. Hall “The Hidden Dimension” 1966. Henri Lefebvre: The production of Space, 1974, page 74
Edward T. Hall “The hidden dimension” 1966.
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was architects who designed the buildings and spaces.47When one examines the subject
the same way. A reason for this could be the fact that the person in the store will get
of how architecture influences social interaction in a shared space, one may find
salary whether or not he or she sells you anything.
coherence in the fact, that we as humans at that time created social spaces and gathered around with a certain purpose, such as going to the agora.
Whilst interacting in a shared space the concept of social space appears throughout. In fact, the social space which (or personal space as it were) plays a pivotal role in the
Nowadays, social interaction has become more of an instinctive manner of interaction.
interaction process. This space can be said to provide an environmental framework for
We still have marketplaces such as the weekly ones in NĂŚstvedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Axeltorv on Saturdays,
the behaviour of a group. With regard to the aforementioned assertion, one may find that
but its scale, function and purpose cannot be compared with that of the agora in ancient
settings within the shared space play a key role in determining the outcome of the
Greece. Because of the changes in terms of production, economy and the way we as
interactions happening in the social space.
humans deal with business when it comes to exchanging goods and services, the concept of a marketplace now differs a lot from that of the agora. Hence, as a consequence of the
4.2) The social norms associated with shared spaces
changes in consumer society, the concept of a marketplace has changed. In this respect, in this day and age, the modern shopping mall can be seen as an extension of the
Interaction in shared spaces needs to be comprehended hand in hand with the concept of
marketplace.48
social norms. As social beings humans create and evolve norms to reduce the risk of the unpredictability of different sorts of behaviour. People create some kind of conventional
Back in the day people may have been travelled for days to get to the agora. One may
set of rules according to the way one behaves. As such, as regards their surroundings
therefore assume that as a result, people tended to pay more attention to each other than
people are programmed in some what or other to know how to act to specific situations
they do in modern day situations. Whilst shopping at the market going from one stand to
and stimuli. It follows therefore that they behave and respond in a certain way when
another, one tends to experience interact with others in a personalised fashion. The fact
interacting with each other. One of the reasons why people accept norms is because they
that people had had been travelling intensively for days to get to this market to sell their
do not want to risk loosing self-respect by virtue of them deviating from the established
goods, an act which was imperative to their survival underlines the significance and
norms. Social norms grow out of social value and both serve to differentiate human
function of the agora on the whole. Today many walk into a store and may not even pay
social behaviour from that of other species. The set of norms one acquires in life are
the slightest attention to the person behind the counter, or vice versa. If we compare the
generally done so in the process of one growing up. Social norms are concepts that
marketplace versus a store, one may find that personal social interaction is not present in
empower human beings with the capacity of elaborate symbolic communication and are
47
therefore a way of structuring behaviour. Norms are the means through which values are
48
Alexander R. Cuthbert : The Form of Cities, p. 1, published 2006, p. 1 http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com
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expressed in behaviour. 49 Generally norms are the rules and regulations that groups live
Lefebvre writes about Leibniz’s thoughts regarding the necessity for the space to be
by. Many of the norms that we live by are learned informally, in interaction with other
‘occupied’ and to make this happen the space must be introduced to directions such as
people and are passed from generation to generation. A group of people featuring a
left and right or orientation of these axes. Leibniz does not believe that this espouses the
diverse number of individuals sets the rules of what a person should or should not do
‘subjectivity’ thesis according to what the observer and the measurer together represent,
and how a person should behave in various situations to contribute positively to other
i.e. the existing. His theory is built upon the fact that we use our body to occupy the
individuals in the group. By such virtue, norms may be defined by individuals and
space.54 When we interact we use our body as an object to show our present
societies’ as being crucial to the society.
50
surroundings our concept of social behaviour, according to our norms. The body as an object has several functions. It is used to indicate directions by a gesture, of defining
Considering that all human action can be drawn from any particular given trend or
rotations by turning round, of demarcating and of orientation in space. 55 If one considers
tendency to another to be meaningful, the spaces one resides in are replete with
the moving body based on the fact that it occupies the space, one may find coherence
symbolic values, celebration, conflicts, collective memory, association etc… all of
between how architectonics lead the moving body in a certain direction. This is the
which accentuate the fact that people breathe in and through space. 51
impact and influence of architecture on the moving body occupying the space.
But how then can we, if possible, define space? Space is not an object. It has no substance, no shape, no orientation, nor direction. One may ask: is space then incomprehensible? Leibniz calls it ‘indiscernible’. 52Lefebvre stresses that philosophers have for the most part taken the existence of an absolute space as a given. In similar vein, the content of space (e.g. figures, relations and proportions, numbers, and so on) has also been taken for granted somewhat. Keeping this in mind, Leibniz maintains that space ‘in itself’ is neither ‘nothing’ nor ‘something’. Leibniz goes on to point out that space is even less the totality of things or the form of their sum. For Leibniz space was certainly, the indiscernible. 53
49 50 51 52 53
http://www.sociologyguide.com/basic-concepts/Social-Norms.php http://www.sociologyguide.com/basic-concepts/Social-Norms.php Alexander R. Cuthbert : The Form of Cities, 2006 page 1 Henri Lefebvre: The production of space, 1974, page. 169 Henri Lefebvre: The production of space, 1974, page. 169
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54 55
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4.3)
The Impact and Influence of Architecture
work, instead it is “ reversed, interrupted, abandoned, cut across and it is seen in all lights and weather.”61 This implies that, in a similar fashion to the perception of art, the aesthetic perception of the city is a very subjective affair. Lynch argues that nothing in a
A central element one has to understand, when dealing with cities is to the notion that
city is experienced by itself, but always in relation to something else. We relate certain
constant movement that takes place. Any given town or capital therefore is under
areas with memory and in our minds and in a way experience the city sequences.62 This
constant change as urban planners and other figures continually develop, expand and
means, that when building significant areas in a capital it is important that it is done in a
improve the dynamics of the city in question. 56
way, people will memorize, like a fountain, antique buildings or decorate pavements.
One of the earliest writing works of architecture is by the Roman architect Vitruvius,
This also makes the structure of a city essential. Lynch states in his book that all mobile
named De architectura. De architectura states that durability, utility and beauty are
animals63 want a sense a security and a feeling of “being on the right track”. He
57
important attributes of any significant architecture . Vitruvius was the first architect that
describes how the feeling of being “lost” would be the worst projection a city could
stressed that function is of great importance with respect to architecture, seconded in this
make64. Taking this to account, we could refer it to the reconstruction of Axeltorv in
assertion by gothic revival architects such as Augustus Welby Pugin who was also very
Næstved, in the summer of 2010. Many of the old elements, like pavements that differ
focused on functionalism. 58
from the rest of the city, a fountain, playground, café, etc. were maintained in such a way that even though the appearance of the space was renewed, it still projects the
The American urban planner and author Kevin Lynch explains in his book The image of the city that: “A city is a construction in space”59and that the design of a city is like a
recognizable essential elements of the earlier square.
form of uncontrollable art.60 Unlike the art of music, the art of a city is never a finished 56
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æ
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58
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59
60
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4.4)
Genders in Spaces
might not even consider the idea of a gendered city at all. Alexander Cuthbert however, firmly believes that a sexless city would require a alteration in not only how we perceive
To start from the beginning, a public place originates from ancient Greece and is 65
each other, but the way we would bring up the generations to come.69
perceived as a democratic place or a place of equality . Its Greek term was res publica
According to A. R. Cuthbert public spaces only exist to the extent that they are
or agora, which translates to a gathering place66. This could be a place of political
acknowledged by law and “civil society” 70. The architectural dynamics affect not only
conversation or of trade, which the two squares of our choice, have in common.
how one may perceive a society, but rather how as a society, we see ourselves. As
When looking into the sexes in the city it is important to look into the background of the
Alexander Cuthbert expressed rather overtly, it’s a man’s world. Moreover, Cuthbert also
relationships between men and women. Western society has according to Alexander R.
sees women being as being controlled by their fears of other classes, genders and races.
Cuthbert been under the influence of a patriarchic system. Even after the years of
In this regard, he refers to the studies of Kristen Day which has investigated the
industrialization, which opened a window for women to join the workforce, the space of
behavioural trends of American women. This research showed that women tend to
the world is still the space of men. Notwithstanding, it would be an extreme
avoid places where their race, class or gender were a minority71.
overstatement to say that nothing has changed in the last 100 years.
It is worth acknowledging the deductions of these studies inasmuch as they imply that it
The idea of gender design stems from the age of industrialization. This was the time in
is not “only” fear of race, class and gender but also a fear of objects and places that
world history at which socialists became aware of the lack of equality between men and
differ from the individual’s concept of “ordinary”.
women. The quintessential ideal behind recognizing this inequality was that men and women should commit equality to the domestic chores and the kitchen-less house became the symbol for the goal.67 This was the outline for a genderless society. Our
5.0
Introduction to the empirical work conducted in Amagertorv &
Axeltorv
focus however is on how architecture manifests gender dynamics within society. The example given by Cuthbert is that of phallic shaped buildings, which cities all over the world construct time and again in an effort to construct the largest edition.68 In fact, one
When we decided to conduct empirical observations we did it to gain knowledge of how various factors manifest themselves in shared space. We also wanted to investigate and
65
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66
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68
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test our hypotheses via interpretation and analysis, based on empirical observations.
proxemics to our observations. Consequently in order for us to understand our
Points 5.0 and 6.0 set out to show how we first observed the shared spaces that we
observations better, a system of classifying what we saw was formulated, with focus on
chose. No final decisions were made regarding what to focus on at this point. The idea
the following:
was to take into consideration everything that shared space had to offer. By not having a narrow goal with respect to these primary observations, we achieved our aim of being as
-General observations: our research displays a general overview of settings such as the
objective as possible.
date of when the examination was conducted, the weather and the time and a sketchy overview of the number of individuals present during the process.
When observing interaction in shared spaces, one may gather a wide variety of information and formulate different hypotheses about the reasons why people behave in
-Architecture : Our research contains considerations about the architectural style, age,
a certain way.
features and design of the town squares and their influence on social interaction.
The actions performed by people in shared spaces may be affected by several agents,
-Social interaction : Examination of interactional patterns between people, based on
such as time of the day, season, weather and mood related issues. Considering these
proxemics . However, at this point of the research, we were not able to apply theories as
statements, this project has been structured by the examination of two different town
such because of lack of material and knowledge on the matter, allowing for a more open-
squares in two distinct cities : Copenhagen's Amagertorv, in the heart of the city and
minded approach.
Næstved's Axeltorv in the middle of the countryside town. Our empirical approach has been performed through the use of video cameras, filmed by sub groups within our
* The video footage of our observations is available online at the following location.
project group. The studies took place twice for each square, initially on a working day
This link contains all the footage used in the writing of this project.
and thereafter on a Saturday. The time of our observations was around noon in all cases and only slight differences regarding the weather existed during the course of
http://www.youtube.com/my_playlists?p=575ACA9F87B1982F
investigation. Most of our video footage can be sourced online (Ref, “Video footage”)
We carried out the first round of observations with the goal of experiencing what the shared spaces had to offer, without considering any ideology or particular thesis. During the second round of observations, we focused our studies on social interaction with the intention of applying some of the theories acquired by reading some material about
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consequent construction of “Højbro” 73
5.1
Amagertorv In 1894 the stork fountain was built on the occasion of the wedding of prince Frederik to princess Louise. Over the course of time, the fountain has been of great importance for many different groups. In the 1960s it was used as a gathering point for youthful counterculture rebellions and nowadays it is frequently used in a ritualistic context started in the 1950s, whereby midwives dance around the fountain when they graduate74. Amagertorv linked with the pedestrian street in 1962. This change gave the square a whole new function as it stopped being a walk through and thereby acquired a calmer atmosphere75 In 1993 the Danish sculptor Bjørn Nørgaard designed the colorful
( Map view of Amagertorv )72
patterned pavement that covers the square76 which, combined with the lighting above it 77,
gives the square a very vivid appeal.
5.2 History of Amagertorv Amagertorv has been known for years though under different names and has served different functions. Around 1470 the square was used as a passage between Gammel torv and the market place by Stranden Ved Nikolajs Plads. It wasn’t until 1472 that the square was known as Amagertorv, a name that derived from the fact that citizens from the island of Amager used the square as a market place for selling groceries to traders from Copenhagen. Up until the end of the 1700s the square was used for parties and tournaments. This changed after an episode in 1795 during which a big fire started at Gammelholm and spread to Amagertorv where it burned down many of the old buildings from the middle age. There was a lot of confusion during the fire because
73
http://vejpark2.kk.dk/apps/monumenter/index.asp?lang=uk&mode=detalje&id=158
people panicked and crowded the square so that the firemen couldn’t get the water to the
74
location of the fire. The fire created more open space in the square, prompting the
76
http://vejpark2.kk.dk/apps/monumenter/index.asp?lang=uk&mode=detalje&id=158 http://www.goldendays.dk/composite-1314.htm http://www.dac.dk/visKanonVaerk.asp?artikelID=2642#
72
http://naivisten.dortemarcussen.dk/wp-content/gallery/base_bymotiver/03_amagertorv.jpg
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75
77
http://www.kk.dk/Erhverv/TilladelserOgBevillinger/VejeOgPladser/arrangementer/Pladsguide/Amagertorv/Pladsen sHistorie.aspx
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rambling , couples holding each other's arms and individuals in the company with their
5.3 Empirical work
acquaintances chatting in close proximity to shops and cafés. The flow of people in the square was less observable on the weekday film excursion than it was on our weekend
General observations th
Our research was conducted on two occasions, on Tuesday the 26 of October and on
trip. As such, on the first visit to the square, it was observed that people converged in
Saturday the 6 of November. In both situations, the studies were conducted in the early
particular spots or clusters as it were, typically around cafes, boutiques and benches.
afternoon and the weather was cloudy and cold. During the first round of observations,
The placement of certain spots such as cafés boutiques and benches in Amagertorv may
on a working day, the influx of people was minimal, thus the square was not really
be described as sociopetal, since it facilitates interaction and make people be able to
populated.
communicate in a comfortable way. Furthermore, we may say that in both observation
On the other hand, the following stage of observations during the weekend presented a
outings the most attractive spot for people to meet and interact it has always been the
different view of the place. The square was much more crowded however during the
fountain, as it bears the appearance of an impressive sculpture, whose circularity may
cold season.
indeed have facilitated the attraction of large gatherings of people and artistic events
th
around it. Architecture When focusing on the architectural aspects of the square, it is worth noticing how broad
6.0. Axeltorv
a space Amagertorv is as well as the numerous entrances and exits to and from it. Amager torv assumes the shape of a funnel by widening and narrowing at the end. The square floor is a pavement with an extravagant pattern of granite pentagons in the colours: rose, black, yellow and grey. This colorful patterned pavement is surrounded by tall buildings whereof some of them are shops, pubs, offices and cafes. As regards the positioning of particular furniture, one may mention the benches placed in the middle of the square, the cafés offering tables outdoor and the fountain, whose edge provides the facility of one sitting on it.
Social interaction
( Map view of Axeltorv )78
During the course of our research, we noticed how the square was home to people 78
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http://www.sla.dk/images/indhold/axeltorv/slide/slide1.jpg
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The reason for our interest in Axeltorv stems from that it matching the profile for a
6.2 Empirical work
countryside square to analyze in our project, mainly due to its many similarities to Amagertorv, such as architectural design and decoration, function and so on. Like Amagertorv, Axeltorv has a rich and colourful history, including recent reconstruction and remodeling last year.
6.1 The History of Axeltorv
General observations Our research at Axeltorv took place on Tuesday the 28th of September and on Saturday the 6th of November both days around noon. The weather on the first day of research was cloudy and cold whereas the weather on the second outing was more sunny albeit still cold.
Though Axeltorv has changed a great deal through time, the function of the square has always been the same. Even before the square was built the place functioned as the center of Næstved and was used by the citizens of the town as a gathering point and marketplace. Around 1553 the last buildings in the square were torn down and Axeltorv as we know it today began to take shape79. Some of the old buildings surrounding the square today are originally from the middle ages and have undergone restoration as the square has continued to evolve. The sculpture in the middle of the square was remade in 1994 by the sculptor Bjørn Nørgaard and is a portrait of an old Danish legend called
Because the first research was made on a working day not that many interactions took place. This made the square seem very empty compared to the second outing where numerous small stands and stalls facilitated increased interaction in the square. The change in the amount of people from the first day to the second was also significant. Additionally, during our second visit there were a lot of people of all ages as opposed to the working day where we spotted people predominantly in the ages of 25+. Architecture
Slattenpatten, first modeled in 1660 by the Danish carver Abel Schrøder. The original title of the sculpture was “Slattenpatten and her daughters from Rønnebæksholm” and
One of the key features of Axeltorv is the rather bright pavement pattern that covers the
according to the myth she is a mysterious woman with long breasts. The children
rectangular town square. Several shops and service sector institutions surround the
standing by her side are half fish half human and if one drink from her breasts one can
square, namely a pharmacy, a bank, a clothes store, and several office buildings. Most of
attain extreme strength, legend has it. In the myth, the Nordic King Volmer used to haunt
the buildings are very old and have an antique-esque look and many of them are red in
Slattenpatten every night and therefore she had to fling her breasts over her shoulders in
color. In one end of the square there is a miniature playground, under which a parking
.80
order to be able to run
lot has been constructed. This parking lot is used mainly in the morning and in the afternoon as people go to and from work. The other end of the square houses Bjørn Nøregaard's statue and contains benches along its outer fringes. Wednesday and the
79
http://www.visitnaestved.com/NR/rdonlyres/A8B6A695-B656-4EB9-97F2-2F00566FF528/0/naestvedpaa1timeDK.pdf
80
http://net.naestved.dk/875/Jubilaeumsnyheder/09Maj-Juni/Slattenpatten.aspx
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weekend in general are market days in the square, as florists, fish mongers, butchers, dairy venders and other small-scale businessmen open their stalls to the public. Their
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presence generates a fair deal of activity within the square and increases the level of
take a look at how signs and symbols reflect human behaviour in terms of how they
crowding.
interact with each other and in a shared space. Additionally, we will include theories of communication to in order to broaden our understanding of the topic of communication
Social interactions
and interaction on the whole. Finally we will adapt these to our analysis of mere
While interacting, most people keep within the social or personal distance of others
physical communication and body language, in order to define the purpose, process and
depending on their relations. Yet we also noticed that there were several examples of
construction of it.
people interacting from the public distance however inconvenient doing so might be owing to the distortion of sensory inputs / outputs at such a distance. Most of the social
7.1 Semiotics of Body Language
interactions at Axeltorv take place by the playground and by the different stands at the market. Unlike the more open parts of the square, people tend to stop up at these places
Whilst we have already touched on the topic of body language by putting the term in a
to small talk and interact.
historical context of definition with complementary theories, we now must go deeper in our study of it. The importance of body language cannot be stressed enough, as it plays a
7.0 Semiotics and Models of communication
crucial role in human interaction, and has great influence on the course and process of conversation and communication of everyday life. However, in order to obtain full
When studying human interaction and communication in a shared space, various crucial
understanding of how human beings function in these situations it is important to grasp
areas of focus come to mind as essential in order to gather a complete overview of the
the basic elements of semiotics before going in depth with selected studies and theories
topic. The dimension of semiotics is one of them, as it takes a deeper look into the actual
by leading communication theorists on the matter.
message that is constructed and conveyed when two individuals interact, rather than just the process of the interaction itself. Semiotics can be used to study everything from texts
In short, it can be said that different gestures and postures contain and construct different
and spoken language to gestures, postures and grimaces. It is defined as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the study of
intentions from both the performer and the receiver, and without a convention, these
signs and symbolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;81. Up until now, we have mainly focused on what makes human
signals that the message (the intention and meaning of a gesture) conveys will be lost
interaction occur, and how cultural and architectural factors affect how we act. With
and misunderstood. The performer in this case is the individual who initiates the process
semiotics in mind, however, we are able to investigate more closely how individuals
by committing an act, which could be anything from making an utterance to drawing
read each other, and their surroundings through signs and symbols. We will specifically
something on a paper. However in the case of body language, we will merely focus on
81
http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/semiotics
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physical acts, such as waving with your hand, tipping your shoulders or simply rolling
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your eyes. These acts that are focused upon are considered as signs in semiotics.
notion of meaning only forming in terms of the other elements in the model. In Peirce’s
Furthermore, the term ‘reader’ is preferred to the term ‘receiver’ in semiotics, as
model, these three elements are called the sign, the interpretant and the object. The
explained in the Anne Fabricius’ compendium because “it implies both a greater degree
following statement by Peirce, taken from Anne Fabricius compendium Text And Sign
of activity and also that reading is something we learn to do; it is thus determined by the
Part One, explains his model: 85
82
cultural experience of the reader” . This is supported further by the assertion that “The reader helps to create the meaning of the text by bringing to it his experience, attitudes
“A sign is something which stands to somebody for something in some respect or
and emotions”83 Hence, we can ultimately begin to understand the importance of this
capacity. It addresses somebody, that is, creates in the mind of that person an equivalent
‘reader’s’ more active role in communication and human interaction, before casting light
sign, or perhaps a more developed sign. The sign which it creates I call the interpretant
on the issue of body language with help from selected models of semiotics as our tools.
of the first sign. The sign stands for something, its object.” (In Zeman, 1977.)
Various different approaches have been explored when it comes to understand the
Thus the interpretant, in Peirce’s case, isn’t meant to be understood as the reader
generation of meaning, some of which have been elaborated upon by the use of models.
himself/herself, but instead as the mere effect and the mental concept the sign would
Despite having thoroughly different takes on the generation of meaning altogether, most
create in the mind of the reader. Peirce emphasised the role of the interpretant by
of the models put forth by theorists share the idea of there being three crucial elements
declaring that, “Nothing is a sign unless it is interpreted as a sign” (ibid.,2.172) 86. The
in the making of meaning. These consist of the sign itself, that to which it refers and the
object is somewhat the goal of it all, the meaning. It’s what the sign is trying to
users of the sign, also called the readers.84
resemble, and the intention of the sign in the first place. An example of how Peirce’s model works could be if one person, A, winks at another person, B. In this case, the
One of the founders of semiotics was the American logician and philosopher Charles S.
action, or the wink, will be assessed as a sign, whilst the object is the intention or ‘the
Peirce. Peirce contributed with his own understanding of meaning in the shape of a
message’ person A is trying to send. Person A might just be in a good mood and feels
triangular model. Peirce’s model, focuses on the three recurring elements which put
like saluting a random person he passes by and gets eye contact with, merely to be
together form a triangle, where each is equally crucial to one another inasmuch as the
polite. However, the reader, person B, can have his own understanding of this gesture,
82
the wink, and might read the sign differently, e.g. as person A showing interest in him, John Fiske: Introduction to Communication studies” - London. Routledge, 1982 pp 43
83
85
John Fiske “Introduction to communication studies” London: Routledge, 1982. pp 43
John Fiske “Introduction to communication studies” London: Routledge, 1982. pp 45
84
John Fiske “Introduction to communication studies” London: Routledge, 1982. pp 44. from Anne Fabricius compendium “Text And Sign Part One” pp. 44
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86
Daniel Chandler: “Semiotics: The basics” Routledge 2007. p, 13. http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/S4B/sem02.html
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by flirting. In such a situation there is a lack of mutual understanding, as the sign isn’t
channel and the code. Together with the sender and the receiver they make up the six
interpreted as intended. There can be several reasons why person A and person B don’t
points of Jakobson’s model, which is pictured below.87
share the same set of codes. There is no fixed convention, as the two people will have brought with them different experiences, habits and other possible marks of social and cultural influence. Convention, or the lack thereof when examining these encounters of social interaction, is a key factor in creating the diversity in the roles of such interaction and communication. What may be considered an act of elegance for the reader, may just be intended as an average act of casualness for the sender of the sign, leading to communication being misinterpreted.
7.2
Alternative Models of Communication
Another very influential study of communication is that of Roman Jakobson and his
Taking into account which use the model will be applied for, the sender and receiver can
model of communication, better known simply as the Jakobson model. Roman Jakobson
also be named the addresser and the addressee or the writer and the reader.
was a Russian linguist, who made use of semiotics and the studies by Peirce in order to
Notwithstanding, when concentrating on body language, sender and receiver are
develop his own model. Though his model of communication mainly has been used to
effectively sufficient terms. While the sender, the message and the receiver, are similar
contribute to studies of verbal and written communication, we have deemed it
to the terms used by Peirce, we must grasp the remaining points of Jakobson’s model.
sufficiently relevant to represent the case of body language and social interaction.
The context could be a situation, or a place, while the contact reflects the way in which the message is conveyed, be it through a written document, a speech or a gesture.
Jakobson’s model, emphasizes the importance of various codes and social contexts,
Furthermore, Jakobson stated that 'the efficiency of a speech event demands the use of a
upon which an act of communication or interaction may be influenced. Not purely a
common code by its participants'88 declaring a similar view on a set of common codes,
basic sender-receiver model, Jakobson’s model also presents four additional points of 87
focus, in order to further define the process and the purpose of a conversation, or other sorts of social interaction. These four additional points are the context, the message, the
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3e/Roma_jakobson_theory.png 88
Roman Jakobson & Morris Halle (1956): Fundamentals of Language. The Hague: Mouton p.72 in the document by Daniel
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or convention as that of Peirce and his model. The code can, in the case of body
put to use in the analysis of social interaction in a shared space as we shall see in the
language, reflect a common understanding of gestures and postures, while ultimately
following brief summary. If we analyze bypassing people in shared spaces such as we
also depending on the context, can be the situation or space where the interaction takes
did with our footage in Copenhagen and Næstved, it is evident that some people
place. Therefore, Jakobson highlights several points that may be taken into consideration
wandered through the squares and shopping streets with different postures, ultimately
when evaluating a course of social interaction and communication.
processing different signals and messages. Some walked with their hands in their pockets tucking their chins as deep in their jackets and scarves as they could, ultimately
Lastly, French theorist and philosopher Roland Barthes’ account of denotation and
displaying a very reserved body language, trying to ‘hide’ in their jackets, scarves and
connotation may also be used as a resource when attempting to come to terms with the
hats, this could be the interpretant in Peirce’s model. However, if we examine these
topics of meaning and communication. Barthes systematically imported some ideas from
postures assisted by the Jakobson model of communication, the message may be that the
semiotics in order to present his theory of two different types of signification. Barthes’
person is in fact just freezing, the chilly weather, being the context, taken in
account explains two different types of signification, somewhat reflecting the
consideration. The Jakobson model appears useful in an additional context, i.e. when
relationship between the signifier and the signified in semiotics. While denotation
adapting it to some of our further footage. In the video of the buskers on strøget, starring
expresses the ‘literal’ meaning, or ‘official’ meaning in a sense, of a word or a gesture, in
what seems to be a family band playing music on the streets of Strøget89, there is also a
the case of body language, Barthes suggested that connotation defines the state of mood
process of communication taking place. While the band is the sender of the message,
feeling or description more in depth and more detailed so to speak. In the case of
being the music they play, the receivers are the people who are object to the music, such
someone expressing their joy through the action of whistling whilst strolling down the
as the people passing by hearing their music. The context is the location at which they
street, the connotative interpretation of the gesture may be something less visible for the
are playing (Strøget), while the contract is the way they emit their message, which is by
viewer, namely the reason as to why this person is in such a joyful moment as it seems
singing and playing their instruments. Ultimately the code settles the reaction of the
to appear. The connotative interpretation therefore is useful in order for individuals to
receivers, in our case we can clearly see some people in the video (apart from ourselves)
read each other’s signals and moods when interacting.
stepping closer and enjoying the music, interacting, clapping their hands and tapping their feet, as we saw after the camera stopped recording. However, other receivers had
7.3 Use of the models of communication and semiotics
conflicting codes, and preferred to walk on by, ignoring the message of the street musicians. Finally, not forgetting Barthes’ theory of the denotative and connotative, if
These models and theories presented above all manifest their respective relevance when 89
Chandler “Semiotics for Beginners” http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/S4B/sem08c.html
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Video
“Buskers Amagertorv I”
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someone signals you a message, a denotative interpretation can help one understand
respective cities. They are both designed to be memorable and as Lynch claims, humans
another persons actions further, as one self can try to construct a clearer view of the
tend to regard their surroundings in sequences. Both of the squares are decorated with
origins of someone else’s body language, going more in depth with someone else’s
pavement that varies from the rest of the city and with two significant monuments in the
feelings when engaging in interaction with one another. In conclusion, these different
form of fountains. The two fountains are interesting to look at in the light of the
models and theories of communication and semiotics lend a helping hand for individuals
symbolism behind each of them. As pointed out earlier the two fountains have a long
trying to grasp the meaning and the purpose of messages of communication, in order to
history, even though Axeltorv’s fountain is a more recent affair. In terms of the theories
ease interaction.
of Alexander R. Cuthbert in connection to the study of Kristin Day, the two fountains could be interpreted as the collision of the gender balance. Cuthbert mentions that the
8.0 Architectural Analysis
dominance of skyscrapers is a phallus symbol, which also could be linked with the two fountains. The basic form of the fountain represents the male gender, whereas the
In the descriptive sections of this project (parts 5 and 6 regarding the notion of open
motives are more focused on the female. Storkespringvandet is decorated with storks
space being represented by a city square either one may find references that point out the
that represent birth and fertility, trades of the female, which also could explain the
fact that social interactions among people tends to be a dissociated process. Indeed it
tradition for the newly educated midwives. The fountain Slattenpatten in Næstved gives
may seem as if social space has a tendency to be less and less about personal social
an even clearer idea of gender balance in the sense that it does not only represents the
interaction and more about collective dynamics. The shared spaces we have examined
female gender in a symbolic way, but also in a literal aspect.
are in many instances merely used as walkthroughs to get from one point to another instead of a place where we as humans stop, talk and interact with each other. People
Both Alexander R. Cuthbert and Kevin Lynch focus on the importance of a healthy city
pass each other in these open shared spaces, surrounded by certain architectonic
environment, where both men and women are comfortable to move around. Lynch’s
features, which lead us in a specific direction. Alexander R. Cuthbert cements this
theory can be applied to the recognizable details of the squares. The decorated
assertion, pointing out that “Since all human actions is infused with meaning, so the
pavement, antique and significant buildings, e.g. George Jensen’s outlet or ILLUM in
space we inhabit are also replete with symbolic values, collective memory, association
Amagertorv are highly recognizable details in this respect. As mentioned before the two
celebration and conflict. 1”
squares have important function of being the central places for movement around the cities and as such they have to be balanced for all who might pass through. Thus the
When applying Kevin Lynch’s theories to the two squares we have to consider the
function of the fountains in the two squares becomes a little clearer inasmuch as they
features and dynamics of the city / town setting within which they are located. The main
serve as mediators between different genders. It is therefore arguable that architectural
thing that both sites have in common is that they are both central places in their
design in general is a method of inducing social interaction in order to create a sense of
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there being a comfort-zone within the space. The art of architecture thus becomes
consideration. Later on in the course of our writing however, we became more aware of
apparent in urban design and aids comprehension of the squareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dynamics. Reiterating,
what we wanted to focus on.
we have discussed the fact that the interaction of people in a shared space takes place in rather robotic, almost pre-programmed fashion in keeping with an encoded code of
9.1
Observations of Social Interaction in Amagertorv
behavioural norms. Depending on whether or not the individual is walking in a group of more than two persons or by themselves, the encoded rule is manifested in different
Amagertorv is one of the most popular squares in Denmark and as such, it is usually
ways, in terms of the variation of the uses of proxemics. According to our observations it
home to a large number of people everyday. People converge in the square for different
is noticeable that two people walking together create their own personal space. Then
reasons such as shopping and leisure related activities. The presence of such a great
again one person may have a tendency to walk faster and more determinedly. This
mass of individuals, the formation of a crowd because of an event or a special day in the
matter of fact can be linked to what has been accounted for in section 3.3. The larger the
week, makes people walk closer to each other.90
crowd the more stressful the environment may seem. This could result in the fact that the variation of the architecture, not only is creating a comfortable zone, but also tries to
When observing the phenomenon of moving flocks of people, one can't realise who is
manipulate the mentality of the social interaction taking place in the public space, in the
interacting with who, nor if the persons know each other on a personal basis. It follows
sense that the goal is to create a calm environment.
therefore that People tend to invade each other's intimate space.91 In this respect, it was noted that some people were comfortable with being in such close contact with complete
9.0 Interpretation of social interaction in Amagertorv
strangers, while others tried to disguise and / or hide themselves by reading newspapers or using mobile phones 92. Quite a number of people even stopped and idled and there were less instances of brisk, goal-oriented walking and more instances of casual, open
* The video footage of our observations is available online at the following location.
/observational walking.93 It seemed that there were no specific patterns in the way
This link contains all the footage used in the writing of this project.
people moved, except for the paths/trends some of them follow to stay closer to the shops, in order to glance at the products on display.94 When examining the square, we
http://www.youtube.com/my_playlists?p=575ACA9F87B1982F
noticed that it presented a wide variety of people engaged in different actions. A group
90
In this section we based our analysis on observations done solely on social interaction. When we first did our empirical research we took all manner of factors into
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91 92 93 94
Video Amagertorv II ( from 00:25 , people walk close to each other ) See section 3.4 : the four distances ( intimate space/ personal space ) Video Amagertorv III ( from 00:10, man with white sweater talking at the phone) Video Amagertorv 1 ( from min 01:39, elderly couple staring ) Video Amagertorv 1 (from min 01:07, lady looks at the shop window)
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of persons gathered close to the fountain were filmed talking and socialising (within the
before it is possible for us to notice this attitude through several non-verbal
realms of personal distance), whilst different couples wandered slowly, and calmly about
manifestations such as facial expressions, postures and gestures.
the square holding each other's hands. Flows of people went in and out from shops, cafĂŠs
When looking at the people who sat on the benches around the square, one could
and surrounding food kiosks 95. Some other characters approached and interacted with
perceive that they presented an open attitude while chatting with their partners or
the music of buskers in the square, forming small crowd clusters within the square. As
acquaintances by stretching comfortably their legs, leaning back against the benches 97.
briefly stated before, the fountain is probably one of the main attractions, whose location
In the videos we shot, one could notice how some people look at ease98, some of them
96
may be described as sociopetal, helping people communicate and interact. In fact this
without folding their arms and with their torsos and palms well exposed. Their facial
spot is a favorite amongst street performers as it fosters a means by which they can
expressions reveal some of the emotions they feel while interacting. A smile, a frown, a
connect with their audience.
look of concern, furrowing one's brow while talking with friends and acquaintances
To sum up, we could observe that there is always a lot of interaction going on in
around the fountain, are all details which can help us interpret someone's mood and
Amagertorv and these interactions most of the times take place within the intimate,
hypothesize about someone's way of interacting99. From the experiment conducted in
personal and social distance.
Amagertov, we learned how to spot this process. For example, this was really noticeable by the way people acted differently while walking through the square. Some persons just walked slowly and patiently, without showing any apparent signs of being bothered by
9.2
Body Language
the contact with other people's bodies due to of the small amount of space available, while others in order to slip away through the crowd without touching others or being
The twin studies conducted in Amagertorv were essential and constructive for our
blocked, keep their hands in their pockets or walk faster without hesitations. Many
project, yet they did not fully enrich us as regards body language trends. In order to
pedestrians, for example lone individuals, walked briskly trying to avoid the blocks of
achieve more precise conclusions and results, a longer period of examination would be
hindering people in that way. 100 In our opinion, they may have been people that were
required. Two days of observations are not sufficient to thoroughly detect recurrent
irritated in some way or other, perhaps for personal reasons and hence their brisk
trends. However, some important and relevant cases involving explicitly and clearly
walking pace may have been an attempt to leave the square behind as fast as possible.
expressed gesturing were taken into consideration and commented upon. As regards body language in Amagertorv, we think it is relevant to mention the relaxed attitude which the majority of people were displaying whilst in the square. As we said
We reached these conclusions by observing the gestures and expressions of exasperation or irritation of random people in the square whenever a person carrying a bike were 97 98
95 96
Video Amagertorv II ( from 00:28, kiosk and interaction ) Video Amagertorv IV ( from 04:03 and at 07:28 )
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99 100
Video Amagertorv 1 ( from min 01:30 to 01:49 ) Video Amagertorv 1 ( from min 04:00 , people relaxing on the benches ) Video Amagertorv II ( from min 01:51, people meeting up, smiling, hugging ) Video Amagertorv III ( from 00:09, man dressed in white talking at the phone, crossing square from left hand side)
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slowing down the pedestrian flow 101
the square is crowded, the individuals manage to connect with each other from a distant
As regards this last statement, we noted something totally different concerning body
position, and thereafter they start walking closer to each other105. They don't seem to feel
language. One particular incident in this respect is that of the encounter between two
uncomfortable, their attitude is visibly relaxed.
ladies in the square. This particular incident displays some interesting aspects of human
As we mentioned before, this analysis did not allow us to collect enough information to
behavior and thus body language.102 The lady dressed in red, carries her bike across the
identify frequent body language tendencies and trends. Nevertheless the results obtained
square, waves briefly at someone else who is approaching her by bike as well. We don't
by observing and detecting the evidently manifested gesticulation of some individuals
know who the person moving nearer is but by analysing her behavior we may say that
have allowed us to compare people's body-language expressions in a city like
she is someone who knows her on a personal basis. The communicational exchanges
Copenhagen and in a countryside town like Næstved.
between the two of them took place within the Intimate and the Personal distances, which are the inner spectra of Hall’s interactional distances discussed before. The body
9.3) Proxemics
language of the two women displays comfort and trust. The receiver of the signal, the second person entering the scene doesn't temporise or hesitate, she walks directly into
In this section of the project, our writing mainly focuses on the theories made by Edward
her acquaintance's personal zone (within the close phase of the personal distance and the
T. Hall. The book used for this part is called “The Hidden Dimension” which provides
far phase of the intimate distance). Another interesting aspect of this particular encounter
us with the key to unlock the meaning and purpose of human interaction. When
may be observed by considering receptive and donative behavior. Allan Pease assumes
searching for the answer to the invisible language of humans, it is important to
that individuals can convey defensive signals in interactional situations by protecting
remember that the book mainly bases its research on American culture, which of course
their torso and thus displaying a close body language, or by interposing an external
can be a problematic affair when applying its findings to Danish culture. It is therefore
object in between them and their opponents 103. In this case, the individuals can be
important to stress the fact that Hall’s research may not be entirely relevant to our
considered rather spontaneous, secure and even open to each other, in fact both of them
findings. However, the cultural differences might not be as vast as they may have been if
are carrying their bikes on the other side of the interactional sphere. There are no
Hall’s research in social interaction had been conducted in a completely different
obstacles or shields inasmuch as the bike is not a barrier104.
culture, such as a non-western one. Our interpretations of Hall’s research therefore
Another fascinating aspect concerning this instance of interaction is the gestures of the
strive to put some of his theories concerning social interaction into perspective as
individuals involved in the interaction, for instance as they wave to each other. Though
regards the observations conducted in Amagertorv. The question as to how the four
101
distances manifest themselves in Danish culture is crucial in this regard, as is the
102 103 104
Video Amagertorv IV ( from 01:35 to 01:40, guy with brown coat and black hat stopped by a bike ) Video Amagertorv 1 ( from min 3:41 including small part at 5:11 ) Allan Pease: Body Language Camel Publishing Company 1981 Page 59 Video Amagertorv 1 ( from min 3:56, the bike is not a barrier )
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105
Video Amagertorv 1 ( from min 03:40, lady in red waves at her acquaintance )
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investigation of how similar or different the manner in which it is expressed is from one
at least it would seem so judging from our footage from Amagertorv. There are many
location to another.
examples in the videos of people making use of the personal distance. One specific
This section will not make a thorough analysis of the four distances, but instead attempt
groups of three people walking very closely together. This simultaneous interaction
to draw out what the videos show us about these distances. When looking at our
between groups is an occurrence that seems to repeat itself a lot in Amagertorv. This
observations in relation to our fieldwork and our videos it is clear that interaction within
might have something to do with the fact that people form packs that they walk around
the intimate phase is problematic to observe as it would appear that intimate behavior
in. One feature of interactions between people within the personal distance that is not
isn't that common in a shared space. Having said that, it does seem to happen more at
documented specifically in our video footage is the level of vocal audio. Observation of
Amagertorv than at Axeltorv. This is underlined by the “Amagertorv VI106” where we
this is therefore limited to our own deductions made at the time of our filming. The
see two people at the far bench in the background. The obvious thing to assume is that it
validity of Hall’s assertion that vocal audio is very moderate at this distance is therefore
probably is a couple. The reason that we assume that it must be a couple is because it
ratified by the fact that we observed that it was normal for people to speak at a very low
would be odd to let a complete stranger into one’s intimate zone, a notion that concurs
and mellow level as they interacted within this proxemic distance. Notwithstanding, as
with Halls theories which state that one only lets ones closest friends or lovers into this
Hall himself states that which is to be considered as normal with respect to proxemic
distance.107 It seems like the couple on the bench are creating their own intimate zone
patterns depends on the cultural settings within which interaction takes place.
example can be seen in the video entitled Amagertorv VI 109 where we observe two
as they watch the world go round. They are also alone on the bench even though there is plenty of room on it for other people to sit down. One could argue that the reason that
The Social distance is a proxemic distance that can both be used by people who know
people don’t sit down next to the couple is because doing so would break the intimate
each other and by people who don’t. An example of interaction within the close phase of
sphere that the they have created. Another example of interaction within the intimate
this distance in video “Amagertorv VII,” where a couple of boys sit at the fountain. The
sphere can be seen in the video “Amagertorv VII” where one can observe a couple
boys are conversing with each other, one is sat on the fountain ledge and the other is
holding hands and walking very close together, at the far phase of the intimate
standing up yet they are far enough apart to be interacting with each other in the close
distance.108
phase of the social distance, exemplifying hence how this distance is used even between people who know each other quite well as we assume the two boys do. There seems to
Moving into the personal distance, it gets easier to observe some of Edward T. Hall’s
be no decisive link between the use of this proxemic distance and the personal
theories, since this is the distance within which many people use in the shared space. Or
relationship people have to each other. Hall also mentions that some people within the
106
far phase of this distance may over-stress their neck muscles in order to gain contact
107 108
Video Amagertorv VI Section 3.4. , the four distances. Amagertorv VII
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109
Amagertorv VI
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with people that they are communicating with.110. This postulation seems applicable to
aspect of his proxemic research that was omitted from our observations. 113
Danish culture from what we have observed. An example of this can be seen can be seen 39 seconds into the video entitled Næstved I 111 where three gentlemen are raising their
10.0 Interpretation of social interaction in Axeltorv
necks and waving to get into contact with someone. * The video footage of our observations is available online at the following location. The last distance of the four is the public distance. This distance manifests itself via
This link contains all the footage used in the writing of this project.
interactions between street performers and their audience. Interactions within this distance can be seen quite clearly in the Videos entitled “Buskers Amagertorv I and
http://www.youtube.com/my_playlists?p=575ACA9F87B1982F
II” 112 where what we assume to be a family of musicians perform to the bypassing audience. In this video people gathered around the musicians to watch the show and thereby interacted with the performers from within the public distance. Interestingly
10.1 Observations of social interactions
enough, the invisible barrier between the performers and their audience wasn’t crossed or breached by a single passer-by who walked around it instead of through it.
When observing social interaction the first thing to notice is how people move in a shared space. In Axeltorv people generally maintain a certain distance while moving
Analysing social interaction in shared spaces entails narrowing down the scope of ones research such that specific factors are accounted for and others are left out. A deeper examination of social interaction could have been made for instance by observing more minute cultural aspects of social interactions. Hall claims that the level of voice changes from one culture to another. It was not possible for us to conduct any concrete research in this respect as our ability to record and analyse sounds in detail was insufficient and inadequate. In similar vein, the dominating effect mentioned earlier by Hall of people standing up in order to look down at people sat within their social distance was another
around the square. When they pass each other they carefully keep within the social distance of other. The only exception is when someone stops to look at the adjacent stands. If two persons, or more are standing by the stalls looking at the merchandise on sale they often move from the social distance to the personal zone seemingly without noticing it. Only if someone dares to move within another person’s intimate distance it is noticed and the person whose personal space is being invaded will most likely move in another direction. Another example where people move within the personal distance of others is at the playground where families were gathered to watch their children play. In this case
110 111
112
Section 3.4. “Social interaction” social distance – far phase.
people often move within each others personal distance while they are talking to each
Video Næstved I
Videos Buskers Amagertorv I and II
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113
Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 114.
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other. When looking at how children move in the square it is noticeable that they do not
within the outer spectra of Hall’s interactional distances (i.e. Public, Social distance) as
seem to have the same perception of the different spaces as adults. As they are running
opposed to within the inner dimensions of these proxemics d as mentioned in the
and playing they sometimes they move into other people’s personal or even intimate
previous section.
space most of the time without noticing it. Similarly, people whose personal space is being invaded by children do not seem to have a strong objection to this. Most of the
One of the exemplary instances of body language being overtly expressed in Axeltorv is
interactions at Axeltorv take place within the personal or social distance but there are
the incident involving the conversation between two elderly men in the middle of the
also examples of interactions taking place from the public distance. E.g. A man
square. (Ref Video, Næstved I117) The body language of the man on his bike (the
approaching another man from a distance of about three to four metres. The
initiator of the conversation) may be described as measured, even cautionary. The
conversation between the two men in the video Næstved I114 takes place within the
subject in question approaches the man seated on the bench (i.e. the receiver) and rather
public distance with the result that they are almost yelling at each other115. Another
candidly avoids entering his intimate zone, preferring instead to communicate with him
example of this is when two girls and a man are talking to each other in the square.
from a distance (i.e. within the far phase of the public distance.) His body language
There are no items in between them but still they are standing far away from each other
reflects his cautionary demeanour, as he places his bicycle in between himself and the
during their conversation 116.
gentleman seated on the bench (See picture.) Whilst this phenomenon may simply be the result of the man using his bike in a practical fashion, it could equally be the consequence of him using the bike as some sort of shield or barrier between him and the
10.2)
Body Language
receiver in the discourse. Allan Pease postulates that humans can, in interactional situations use solid objects such as furniture to protect themselves as part of an
The overall duration of our research in Axeltorv was somewhat limited insofar as it
instinctive process that one learns as a child. 118 Conversely, the body language of the
didn’t allow us to make significant observations of body language trends as such.
recipient in this particular example of interaction, i.e. the man sat on the bench can be
Instead, separate instances involving explicitly and overtly expressed gesticulation were
described as rather free, secure and even open. The man’s torso is exposed, as his arms
observed and commented upon. This was exacerbated by the fact that Axeltorv was not
are folded shoulder-width apart across the bench and his legs aren’t crossed. This
that populated and as such, the number of observations that could be made of body
assertion is supported by the work of Allan Pease, who maintains that crossed legs and
language within the space was limited. In this respect, the lack of crowding in the square
protected torsos reflect closed body language inasmuch as those exhibiting body
may explain the fact that the communicational exchanges between people took place
language of this sort seek inadvertently to protect themselves in some way or other. On
114 115 116
Video Næstved II (Time 00:39) Næstved II Time: 04.35 Næstved IV. Time: 00.02.55
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117 118
Video, ”Næstved I” (00:39) Allan Pease: Body Language Camel Publishing Company 1981 Page 59
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the other hand, exposed torsos and uncrossed legs are said to reflect more open, donative
gentleman with the bicycle in Video “Næstved I” initially approaches the man sat on the
body language.
bench via interacting with him from the outer fringes of Hall’s proxemic distances, all the way out in the public distance used by interactions between musicians / streets artists
Returning to the interaction between these two gentlemen, it was observed that the man
with their audience. He then slowly advances through the far phase of social distance
with the bike slowly yet surely encroached closer to the subject sat on the bench, albeit
and eventually to the near phase of the social distance but never strays within the
making this advance with his bike placed in front of his torso as opposed to doing so
personal or intimate distance. Edward T Hall and Allan Please alike argue that the
with his torso leaning away from the bike. Such behaviour can be said to be
amount of personalised space required by an individual within a shared space depends
precautionary, as the man exercises caution before entering the personal zone of his
on the area in which he or she was raised. 121 It has been suggested that those raised in
contemporary sat on the bench, a feature of territoriality dynamics that has been asserted
cities require less personalised space than those raised in the country. One could thereby
by the works of anthropologists and social scientists alike. 119 In fact, this is rather
pose questions as to whether the simple fact that we filmed in Næstved was an influence
predictable, overt feature of interaction that manifests itself in countless everyday
in itself upon interaction in Axeltorv, indeed whether culture dictated that the two
interactional exchanges between humans. Spatial dynamics in the Western world for
subjects in video “Næstved I” communicate with each other from such expansive
example implicitly dictate that one lays claim to a territory of his own within a shared
distances. It is however worth to note that other factors could explain the manner of
space, he or she does so by choosing the widest space available between himself or
interaction observed, for instance the personalities of the subjects in question. How
herself and then occupying the area in the centre. This free space can be manifested in
introverted or extroverted both were both at the time of our observations and generally
the form of a free seat on a public transport vehicle, halfway between the end of a row
could certainly explain their interactional patterns, if only on a sketchy, assuming level
and where the nearest person is seated or the unclaimed towel hook at the gym, midway
based on our exceptionally limited knowledge of the personalities of these individuals.
between two other towels or midway between the nearest towel and the end of the towel rack. This territorial ritual could be a precautionary measure that seeks to avoid
Another feature of body language observed in Axeltorv was the more relaxed demeanour
offending other people by either being too close or too far away from them. 120
of people in groups compared to people that were by themselves in the square. The comfortableness of being within familiar contexts (indeed the very notion of having
One could also pose the question as to whether or not the interactional process under
something remotely in common such as a shared purpose as minor as observing a poster
discussion could be link to cultural factors that may have some influence in the manner
on a wall with other people as opposed to being completely alone) can be said to create a
in which communication between people takes place. As stated previously, the
sense of ease amongst people.122
119 Allan Pease: Body Language Camel Publishing Company 1981 Page 23, Adam Sammons, Article on territoriality, http://www.psychlotron.org.uk/resources/environmental/A2_OCR_env_territory.pdf 120 Allan Pease: Body Language Camel Publishing Company 1981 Page 23,
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121
122
Allan Pease: Body Language Camel Publishing Company 1981 Page 23, Edward T Hall, The Hideen Dimension
REF section 4.
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and they thereby have a more relaxed attitude towards others. It could also be the fact that people’s attention is diverted while looking at the merchandise which makes them more unaware and therefore less cautious when people enter their personal/intimate zones.
10.3 Proxemics In our observations of Axeltorv we noticed that when moving in the square people tended to stay within the social zone of others. It is only when people gathered around the stands to look at the merchandise that they seem to feel permitted to enter the 123
personal or even intimate zone
. So why is it only okay to enter the personal zone in
some situations?
As mentioned before we noticed in our observations that children do not seem to have the same perception of the different zones. The reason for this is that children have not yet been indoctrinated with norms and culture. As they are not aware of the significance of the zones they do not see the invasion as a violation. in this context, the reaction of adults to invasions of their personal or intimate zone by children is rather interesting. It seems as if they too do not see the invasion as a violation. This is possibly because an
There are no general rules for how much space human beings need in order to feel
adult rarely perceives children as a threat.
comfortable. The comfort zone is individual and can vary depending on culture, gender, personality etc124. When people move around at Axeltorv they generally don’t move outside of each others social zones. A simple reason for this could be that there is so much space that there is no need to do otherwise. Humans have a way of accommodating to the space given which would also mean that if the square was more crowded it would be more acceptable to enter another person’s personal or intimate zone125. The reason why people seem to be okay with crossing the zones while they are looking
Another thing to notice is that many people at Axeltorv seemed comfortable talking to each other from the social or public zone. According to Allan Pease the reason for this is that people growing up in the country have a wider comfort zone than people growing up in the city126. A limitation in this applying this theory to this specific example is that we lack important information about the background of the interacting people which mean that it is not certain that these people in fact grew up or even live in the countryside.
at the stands could be that they are adjusting to the space available to them as they are trying to look at the merchandise. Another reason could be that gathering around
11.0 Analytical Comparison of Axeltorv and Amagertorv
something with a joint purpose makes people feel like they have something in common 123 124 125
Video Næstved III: 01:53 See section 3.3 on proxemics, Definition of the four distances. See section 3.3 on proxemics, Social interaction in animals
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11.1 Comparison of Body Language 126
Allan Pease : ”Body Language” Camel publishing company 1981
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town. Comprehension of the comparison of the body language trends in the two squares needs to be made with consideration to the fact that as a rule of thumb, there was a lot more
The walking pace of some individuals within Amagertorv is brisk and arguably hurried
going on at Amagertorv than there was in Axeltorv at the time of our filming. The sheer
and there are relatively few instances of the use of everyday objects as devices that
number of people present in the former was much greater than that in the latter. This
impose boundaries upon communicational processes. At Axeltorv on the other hand,
arguably fostered conditions for more instances of interaction between people in
Pedestrian pace at this location is as a rule of thumb, slow if not calm and calculated and
Amagertorv, whilst the lack of large numbers of people in Axeltorv may have done the
the use of objects as barriers to communicational processes is quite common. This
opposite, thereby limiting the scope and extent of what could be observed. In this
variation can again be traced back to the fact that there were more people in Amagertorv
context, the function and consequences of crowding upon the interactional / behavioural
than there were in Axeltorv at the time of our observations, and hence whilst
mannerisms of people within these two sites needs to be considered.
Amagertorv was more crowded as a consequence, Axeltorv was far less crowded. The effect of crowding has already been discussed in section 3.3 127. One could therefore
Many of the body language patterns observed in Amagertorv can be described as being
argue that the higher walking pace observed in Amagertorv is a direct result of greater
examples of open, donative behavioural trends. Gesticulation takes place in many
levels of stress which in turn is a response to crowding. The reverse is therefore true of
instances and in an overt if not explicit fashion, arguably reflecting the fact that there
our deductions pertaining to Axeltorv; lower walking speeds as a result of lower stress
was generally more interaction on the whole between people in the square during our
levels in themselves a consequence of less crowding in the shared space. It was also
visits to the site. This is exemplified by the numerous instances of exposed torsos, open
noted that quite a few people in Amagertorv tended to walk around the square, close to
palms, overt gesticulation and so on. One could argue that the sheer number of people in
the buildings surrounding it in order to get from point A to B, as opposed to walking
the square facilitates the opportunity for more interactional exchanges, and thereby
through the centre of the square. This tendency was amplified the fewer people there
allows for increased instances of expressions of body language. Copenhagen’s status and
were in the square. As a rule of thumb however, the flow of people in the square as they
significance as the capital city of Denmark may indeed play a pivotal role in explaining
walk from one point to another was rather random. Axeltorv also reflected the
the high population density within Amagertorv. Body language tendencies in Axeltorv
phenomenon of people walking around the square as opposed to walking through it to
can be elucidated as being a blend of both open and closed behavioural trends. In
get from one point to another. Whether or not this increased depending on the number of
Næstved’s Axeltorv, gesticulation takes place in moderation and is limited to several
people in the square is not known as the numbers of people in Axeltorv at the time of
brief instances. It would be prudent to ask whether this reflects the fact that there were
filming were more or less constant. It was however observed that people in Axeltorv
generally less observable interactions between people at this location at the time of our
tended to walk around the square as opposed to through it in general, even though in
visit, a tendency that could in turn be linked to the status of Næstved as a provincial
127
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See Section 3.3 (Crowding)
many instances, the shortest route from A to B was through the middle of the shared
would of course be the fact that there are far more people present at Amagertorv than
space and not around it. More specific flows of pedestrian traffic were observable as a
Axeltorv. We base this assumption on the statement that we find ourselves in the capital
result of this tendency. Consequently, the less crowded the shared space, the more the
of Denmark and furthermore on the sheer size of the square.
tendency to avoid walking through it and instead walk around it. This rather interesting
Another pattern that we can draw parallels between in the two squares is the way people
phenomenon present at both sites, (At Amagertorv during periods of lower levels of
use the personal distance. At Amagertorv it seems that this particular distance is the most
crowding and at Axeltorv in general which wasn’t crowded during any of our visits)
used compared to Axeltorv where the social distance is used a great deal more. An
could be explained by the fact that people may have felt more exposed and noticed
answer to this dissimilarity could again be based on the numbers of people in the square
walking across the square than they did if they walked around it, close to the protection
at the time of our observations. Overcrowding patterns tend to force people to get closer
of the buildings. Our comprehension of this matter would perhaps be enhanced by
than they would normally do. I.e. sometimes the function of the space determines the
observation of more shared spaces in different cultural contexts in order to establish
distance that people move in. In a train the massive amount of people contained in the
some sort of norm. For the moment however, our own assertions are the only prudent
small place, forces individuals to share the intimate or personal sphere with people that
guesses that can be made as we have little within our theoretical foundation that can
they wouldn’t normally share it with. The same thing seems to happen in Amagertorv
accurately account for the pedestrian path patterns described.
where the amount of people makes individuals use a relative close proxemic distance in
11.3 Comparison of Interactions
the course of their interactions. However we do stress that at this point it would be wrong to assume that Axeltorv doesn’t reflect such responses to overcrowding, because
When observing the two squares it became clear that the use of all four distances
128
was
it changes in terms of function as we have already discussed. One thing that we observed
present at both sites. We have therefore chosen to draw parallels as well as differences in
when making empirical investigation in Næstved was that Axeltorv has dual functions. It
relation to these four distances.
can work as a walkthrough that combines several streets of central Næstved. It can also, during Wednesday and Saturdays, change into a market where it functions as a social
In terms of proxemics in the two squares there are several things one can look into when
gathering point. Through these video observations it became clear that the distances in
trying to gain an idea of the similarities and differences in social interaction. A trend that
Axeltorv vary in terms of the function of the square130. When talking of the function of
one would notice could be that at Amagertorv the presence of the intimate distance is far
the squares it’s important to stress the fact that the tendency regarding change in
more common than at Axeltorv. We observed that it was possible to identify couples
functions seems to be similar in both Axeltorv and Amagertorv. It doesn’t seem like the
who moved and interacted within the intimate distance129. The obvious reason for this
function is more localised in relation to Amagertorv, indeed it can still vary as well as in Axeltorv. A street performer or public speaker can still change the function so that it may
128 129
Section 3,4 ( The four distances ) Section 3,4 ( intimate distance )
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130
Reference to video of Næstved on Tuesday and video of Næstved on Saturday.
Page 82 of 103
become more intimate131. Since the personal distance is the most used at Amagertorv one could assume that
The structural design of the two squares differs quite somewhat.(see descriptions of
conversation would take place at personal distance as well 132. In Axeltorv it seems to
Amagertorv and Axeltorv.) We focus a huge part of our analysis on the similarities of
take place at the social distance. During the time we spent filming the dynamics at
the two squares. In terms of aesthetics for instance, both squares have elaborate paving,
Axeltorv we came across some footage of two men conversing in the far phase of the
house beautifications of one sort or another (such as fountains, light posts and so on) and
social distance. This would have been far more difficult at Amagertorv since the amount
streamlined architecture. It is quite evident therefore that both squares reflect features of
of people would interfere in their interactional processes. An example of this can be seen
urban design that intend to create a zone of comfort and a dynamic and every-changing
in video number VII where a person waves and tries to reach contact with another
environment. Hence, the basal functions of the two squares, at its simplest form is that of
person, but because of all the interference in the square he has to stretch his neck and
accommodating the needs of the people who use them. This is acquiesced by facilitating
evade the disturbances from other people. Hence, Axeltorv gives people the opportunity
opportunities for shopping, walking through, meeting and so on and so forth. In this
to interact more freely by virtue of it being less crowded.
context, whilst Amagertorv’s function is determined by the amount of people in the square, Axeltorv’s is derived from what the square has to offer at a given time (for
12.0
Discussion
instance if there is a market in it or not)
The following section is a discussion of the different aspects that we have looked into
An examination of how to change the nature and purpose of the function of the square
during the process of writing the project.
could enhance our comprehension of whether or not social norms in shared spaces can be altered. With respect to Axeltorv, the obvious challenge in connection to altering the
12.1 Architectural Aspects
function of the square is to attract an amount of people to the extent to which it could be compared to the amount of people interacting in Amagertorv. Despite this challenge,
Our major observation, in terms of the squares has been how they differ from the spaces
Næstved’s city planners and geographers are constantly trying to make the town a centre
around them with respect to the architecture within them which is one of the elements to
of cultural activities such exhibitions, concerts and the weekly market mentioned earlier.
create the place within the space. In our analysis we point out what elements needs to be present for the creation of secure surroundings. This section questions the validity of our
Notwithstanding, on a day-to day basis, Axeltorv’s crowding dynamics do not come close to matching those of Amagertorv.
assertions pertaining to the aforementioned elements. At Amagertorv, few official cultural events take place. More informal cultural events 131 132
Video ”Buskers Amgertorv I) Video Amagertorv VI
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take place in the form of street musicians entertaining the passing masses. When the
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topic of alteration of the function of shared spaces comes to mind, with respect to
physical layout, but shifting the norms in extent of the layout, for instance by placing
Amagertorv, we began thinking of what the central object at the site was and what
trees tightly around the fountain and toilet area with the purpose of creating a less
outcome would be yielded by altering it. As stated severally, the virtual structural layout
stressed atmosphere, like the one associated with the ambience of a park. It could also be
of Amagertorv is very guiding to the pedestrian, operating as a long two-way passage
interesting to place trees far apart from each other in the walking area with the purpose
before opening up midway through the square, by the Storkespringvand fountain and
of creating a calmer, less-stressed walking environment.
public toilets. It is at this end, where people have to choose their next street, and thus if one interprets the significance of the fountain as a tranquil place that represents equality
12.2 Body language
and calmness this is indeed a strategic location for its placement as this is where most of Amagertorvâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visitors pathsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cross.
Throughout the writing of this project, body language has been explored and investigated as a process or subset as it were of social interaction, and more specifically
During the course of our fieldwork, we learned that the dynamics of the squares in
as a component of interaction in various proxemic distances. Several key similarities
question change rapidly depending on the amount of people in the area. On the 28th of
between the expression of body language in Amagertorv and the manifestation of the
September, which was a workday, it was observed that the amount of people in the
same in Axeltorv have been found to exist. In similar vein, key disparities in this
square implied that people didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exploit the massive expanse of space in the square, but
concern have also been identified.
rather created activity clusters here and there. There was a tendency to keep out of the middle and stay to the sides close to the surrounding buildings. However this did not
The observation of the expression of body language in Amagertorv was more easily
occur at all on our second day of field research, which took place on a very crowded
observable than it was at Axeltorv due to the fact that the latter was generally a lot more
Saturday. The increase in the amount of people seemed to create movement patterns akin
crowded and as such, there were more interactional processes in stake. All the same,
to that of a mob, as opposed to preserving individual movement trends. These group
body language in Amagertorv was manifested overtly, explicitly and constantly. At
tendencies, present during periods of greater crowding such as market days minimized
Axeltorv, tangible expressions of body language were more sporadic and infrequent and
the effect of architectural dynamics on interaction by creating flowing clusters of
took place over larger proxemic distances as a rule of thumb.
interactional processes as opposed to allowing for free movement on an individual basis. This disparity may well be explained by the differences in the crowding levels at both Another example of alteration to the dynamics of a shared space would be a
sites, though it could just as easily be accounted for in the context of the cultural settings
reconstruction of its interior such as remodeling the fountain, benches and so on at
within which the interactions observed took place. A discussion of the use of larger
Amagertorv. We discussed the possibility of changing, not just the flow in terms of the
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proxemic distances to communicate amongst countryside dwellers as opposed to city
manifest themselves in a shared space. So far we have managed to look at how Hall’s
dwellers, an assertion made by both Edward T Hall and Allan Pease could factor in as
four proxemic distances are displayed in Amagertorv and Axeltorv and analyse in a
concerns the explanation of the differences in the display of body language at the sites in
comparative fashion how this differs from one place to the other. What hasn’t been
question. One could argue that country dwellers have a tendency to be more reserved
investigated is the meaning of these four distances and why it is important for us.
and reticent than city dwellers in their communicational exchanges with one another, not merely by their maintenance of larger proxemic distances but also by less overt
The main findings of this project are of great importance when it comes to us
expressions of their body language. It follows therefore that body language in Næstved
understanding how people interact. By looking into the matter of proxemics we have
was harder to observe than it was in the capital city contextual environment of
discovered that in terms of the distances that these distances are indeed present and
Copenhagen’s Amagertorv.
greatly influenced by the function of the squares that we have investigated. The importance of investigating these four distances in the squares analysed has aided our
In both Amagertorv and Axeltorv, crowding seemed to encourage more rapid flows of
understanding how humans interact with each other, one of our key motivations as far
pedestrian traffic and a lack of crowding created clusters of small groups dotted around
the writing of this project is concerned.
the areas in question. The need for human beings to have some sort of coherence and peace by being in situations that create familiarity can be said to be pivotal in explaining
When it comes to the discussion of whether our main findings compliment the work of
the expressions of body language via walking patterns and tendencies that we have
the theorists we’ve used to conduct our research, we can say that it there is definitely a
observed. A lack of familiarity created by one being more alone or certainly more
great deal of coherence. A good part of our observations concerning proxemic distances
isolated in situations that aren’t that crowded may inspire an urge to seek more
Overlap with the postulations of Edward T. Hall. This notwithstanding, we weren't able
familiarity and hence trigger more rapid walking. Conversely, the sense of belonging
to test the theories by Edward T. Hall as much as we would have liked (see
created by the presence of larger crowds may well generate more anonymity and
“Delimitations”) and thereby gain a much clearer view upon how our results could be
therefore mechanisms that seek to generate increased situational familiarity (such as
related to his.
faster walking pace) are not triggered. One could argue that when it comes to our analysis of social interaction in shared spaces
12.3 The matter of proxemics
there is in fact a very limited amount of things that one can focus on, taking into consideration the amount of time and resources that were put to use. This means that
One of our hypotheses in our project aims to ask the questions of how proxemics
our results in relation to that of other theorists, who have had more time and access to look deeper into research concerning this matter, are somewhat inconclusive as we
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haven’t been able to deduce wholeheartedly concrete conclusions. This in turn implies
project.
that even though some of Hall’s theories may not fit perfectly with our observations, we can't necessarily state that he was wrong in his assertions.
Since the focus in this project is mainly about the influence of architecture on social interactions it would be interesting to take a further look into the influence of
One aspect that would have been interesting to take a deeper look at, in terms of
architecture in itself. Instead of comparing the two squares solely by looking at the
proxemics, is the cultural aspect of the social interaction. Hall makes a statement on
social interactions, we could have taken an architectonic comparative view and thereby
culture where he mentions that the level of voice changes in relation to what culture one
looked at how architecture differs from one culture to another.
finds themselves in. As valid as this may or may not be, we were unable to delve into detail on the matter as our sonar observations were not detailed enough.
Another interesting way to approach the project could be the distinction between
Another of Halls theories that could have been tested in an analysis and investigation is
intentional body language expressions and unintentional ones. This refers to us
the theory which involve people standing up and looking down on people sitting within
examining people’s gestures in order to detect if the way they act is voluntarily done or
the social distance which is said to have a dominating effect that can be observed in
unconsciously. Another aspect that could have been developed and included in the
conversations between businessmen and their secretaries for instance133. If one were to
project is the matter of power. Power can be expressed in several ways, in fact the
discuss alternative explanations of our findings one could take a look at other theories
architectural construction of spaces often has its basis in power related matters. By
and put our observations into a different perspective than that of Edward T. Hall. This
taking into consideration Michele Foucault’s theories on macro-level, we could have
leads us to the section on “Further research” that will be discussed in the following
investigated how these kinds of power related matters are manifested in shared spaces.
pages. For further research on a historical basis, it would be interesting to look into how the
13.0 Further research
square has changed through time and if the changes have had any influence on the social interactions in the square. Due to the limits of time and resources at our disposal, we did
When writing a project there are some particular things that have to be excluded from the beginning, in order to be able to make a thorough investigation of a subject. This
not have the opportunity to conduct our empirical work in other places, apart from Denmark. If we were to do further research in the same field but in different countries, it
does not mean that other subjects are not relevant to look into. For this reason we would
could have been interesting to observe how social interactions develop within different
like to propose some points that would be useful for further research in relation to our
cultures.
133
Edward T. Hall: “The Hidden Dimension” 1966 page 114.
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on how we interact. This goes for all contexts of social interaction. Body language and
14.0 Conclusion
proxemics are highly influenced by the shared space. In terms of how we behave and how the four distances manifest themselves in the space, the function of the square can
When we set out to investigate the case of the shared space influence on social
change how the distances are expressed. This also applies to the matter of body
interaction, we did it because we wanted a deeper view upon what influences us as
language. If the square is crowded by people or influenced by the occurrence of a market
humans and how we communicate. In this concern, we found the issue of architectural
or any other event for that matter it shows in the manner in which body language is
influence and the variation of it from one space to another intriguing and fundamental to
exhibited. The same can be said of the manner in which the function of the square makes
the course of our study.
us act and also in relation to the style of the architecture both of which could affect the norms of the space. The reason we write â&#x20AC;&#x153;couldâ&#x20AC;? is because of the fact that through our
We approached the core of this project by investigating and observing how architectural
analytical process and by discussing the matter of norms, we were never able to fully
dynamics, body-language and social interaction are manifested in the capital of
prove that architecture influences the norms. The reason for this is that during the course
Denmark and in a smaller town located in the countryside. We defined the shared space
of our empirical research we weren't able to test or make any invention. Yet with
and thereby separated it from the term place, which was necessary in order to fully
different research we do believe that it would be possible to prove the existence of a
understand the concept. We also examined the matter of proxemics since we quickly
more tangible link between architectural dynamics and interactional patterns in shared
learned that the presence of the four distances were absolute and interesting to look at in
spaces. Lastly, one may conclude that as far as body language and proxemics are
terms of comparing the two different squares that we used.
concerned, there is a distinct and indisputable variation from one culture to another in terms of the function of the shared space and of the crowding within it. We based this
To achieve knowledge about these matters we studied different theories upon
conclusion on the results obtained from the analytical comparison.
architecture and human behavior. We used these theories to put our own research in
The project is of major importance even though we didn't fully answer some of the
perspective and to study different trends in terms of interaction. Thereby we tested our
questions in our thesis statement. It still allows us to learn a great deal about human
own expectation/hypothesizes and the theories of others.
interaction as well as the influence of a shared space. It has taught us how many different factors must be taken into account when reflecting on the way humans behave.
We learned that architectural matters played a big role in terms of the function of the
We set out to look upon some of the trends connected with proxemics and body
squares that we focused on. Ultimately, the greatest and most important results of our
language, but as we went further into the project we discovered that we weren't able to
investigation have been to confirm the fact that architecture has a significant influence
prove these trends wholeheartedly and concretely due to our lack of research. By and by, we learned that there might not even be a concrete answer to our questions. One can
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investigate, interpret and put our queries into a theoretical perspective but there will always be factors such as power, gender-matters, culture etc… to be taken into account.
Fiske, John. (1982) “Introduction to Communication studies”. Routledge
Furthermore, if it is possible to find an answer, it could quickly change because of time, weather or seasons and last but not least, cultural differences. Similarly, as we have seen
Hall, Edward T. (1966) “The Hidden Dimension”. Garden city.
from the examples of the book “The hidden dimension” by Edward T. Hall in our source criticism, it can also change through history and thus certain patterns that were observed
Howe, Thomas – Rowland, Ingrid. (1999) “Vitruvius,Ten Books on Architecture”.
can suddenly change over time.
Cambridge University Press
Jakobson,Roman - Halle, Morris. (1956) “Fundamentals of Language”. The Hague 15. 0 Bibliography Lefebvre, Henri. (1974) “The Production of Space”. Blackwell publishing.
Literature Pease, Allan. (1981) “Body Language”. Camel publishing company. Birdwhistell, Ray. (1975) “Introduction to kinesics, an annotation system for analysis of body motion and gesture”. University of Louisville.
Pugin, Augustus. (1853) “The true principles of pointed or Christian architecture : set forth in two lectures delivered at St. Marie's.” H.G. Bohn
Calhoun, John B. (1973) “Death Squared: The Explosive Growth and Demise of a Mouse Population”. The royal Society of Medicine.
Youtube videos
Chandler, Daniel. (2007) “Semiotics: The basics”. Routledge
Amagertorv 1 ( Tuesday 28th September ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQoqzevHhak
Cuthbert, Alexander R. (2006) “The Form of Cities”. Blackwell Pub
Amagertorv II ( Saturday 6th November ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKo2gGgl18
Darwin, Charles. (1872) ”The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals ”
Amagertorv III ( Saturday 6 th November ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L94yCbz1Jq4 Amagertorv IV ( Saturday 6th November )
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrEIJa2ucf8 Amagertorv V ( Tuesday 28th September )
-Dictionary.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TMYLjnewpk
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/interaction
Amagertorv VI ( Tuesday 28 th September ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4jhQxmFEsA
-Golden days: viden og fortælling
Amagertorv VII ( Saturday 6th November )
http://www.goldendays.dk/composite-1314.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74oJ_FxBCQU -Image of the four distances of Edward T. Hall: Næstved 1 ( Monday 4th October ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvOKni4p3Hw
http://www.answers.com/topic/proxemics
Næstved II ( Monday 4th October ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4ok3GDOn4s
-Intro quote of architecture
Næstved III ( Saturday 6th November )
http://www.business21c.com.au/2010/09/frank-gehrys-impact134
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prUwTYgYSkQ Næstved IV ( Saturday 6th November )
-Københavns kommune: Amagertorvs historie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBSvmy4sEVM
http://www.kk.dk/Erhverv/TilladelserOgBevillinger/VejeOgPladser/arrangementer/Plads
Næstved V ( Saturday 6th November ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdosL7p0Ct4
guide/Amagertorv/PladsensHistorie.aspx
Buskers Amagertorv I (4thOctober) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0nWkjXVdMA
-Map of Amagertorv & Map of Axeltorv: pictures
Buskers Amagertorv II (4thOctober) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrRlK5is9DQ
http://naivisten.dortemarcussen.dk/wpcontent/gallery/base_bymotiver/03_amagertorv.jpg
Internet sources
http://www.sla.dk/images/indhold/axeltorv/slide/slide1.jpg
-Cambridge dictionaries online
-Map of the square & the Stork fountain
http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/semiotics
http://vejpark2.kk.dk/apps/monumenter/index.asp?lang=uk&mode=detalje&id=158
-Dansk arkitektur center: Amagertorv http://www.dac.dk/visKanonVaerk.asp?artikelID=2642
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134
Intro about: Urban design: http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Urban+design
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-Næstved: Slattenpatten af Bjørn Nørgaard
http://www.yourdictionary.com/body-language
http://net.naestved.dk/875/Jubilaeumsnyheder/09Maj-Juni/Slattenpatten.aspx
16.0 Source criticism
-Oxford Online English Dictionary
This section contains an investigation of the sources used in this project. As we have
http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0795350#m_en_gb0795350
used these works as a basis for out assignment we have to take a further look into the validity of the sources applied. The points we are going to focus on in this matter are; if
-Roman Jakobson: sender-receiver model
the materials are primary or secondary sources, time contexts, the writer’s assumptions,
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3e/Roma_jakobson_theory.png
historical influences and lastly the credibility of the sources.
-Semiotics for Beginners
We have divided the sources into two different groups, primary sources and secondary
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/S4B/sem02.html
sources. The primary sources are the material from which we have used theories in order to answer the problem formulation. The secondary sources are the sources used to
-Sociology guide
support the theories and provide basic knowledge on other matters (i.e. historical
http://www.sociologyguide.com/basic-concepts/Social-Norms.php
matters). It is important to state that this section does not contain an in-depth analysis of each
-Territoriality
source but simply point out a few of the considerations we have done while using these
http://www.psychlotron.org.uk/resources/environmental/A2_OCR_env_territory.pdf
authors/sources.
-The Free dictionary by Farlex : Urban design http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Urban+design
Primary sources
-Visit Næstved: historie
Research videos
http://www.visitnaestved.com/NR/rdonlyres/A8B6A695-B656-4EB9-97F2-
The videos of Axeltorv and Amagertorv is a product that we ourselves have created as a
2F00566FF528/0/naestvedpaa1timeDK.pdf
tool for the empirical research. The videos give an objective reflection of what was happening at the squares yet the fact that the focal points of our filming were chosen
-Your Dictionary
subjectively on the second occasion of our filming implies that a degree of bias on our
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part may exist.
on. As Hall was American his research focuses mainly on American society and culture.
This is underscored by the fact that we, from the beginning had certain assumptions and
This is important to take into account as we apply some of his theories to completely
therefore had a tendency to film what we thought was relevant in order to apply specific
different kinds of societies (Næstved and Copenhagen). Another important thing to
theories to our observations later on in stead of just filming the square objectively.
notice is that the book “The Hidden Dimension” was written in 1966 while the research for the book was made about ten years earlier . This means that there is a great gap in
Furthermore it is important to consider the manner in which we have conducted the
relation to society and norms from the time the research was done to the time the book
research. As every researcher we each have a cultural background which naturally
was written and then again to modern day society.
influences our perception of what we see, thus limiting our objectivity in one way or another.
Roland Barthes Barthes was a 20th century French critic and philosopher who wrote vast works covering various subjects, notably those of literary theory and semiotics. Much of Barthes’ work
Allan Pease:
included literary critique, much of this published in French public media. Barthes was
A great success as a salesman became the beginning of the authorship for the Australian
influenced by Ferdinand de Saussure’s work and as his theory on signs borrows from
born Allan Pease. He has written 15 books in cooperation with his wife Barbara Pease
theories by Saussure of the same. Whether the source can be used as a first or second
and together they offer lectures on Body language. Pease is a recognized author in the
hand source is debatable. Another point to keep in mind is that Barthes was a Marxist
field of body language but it seems as if his research is mainly based on personal
which possibly have had an influence on his theories.
experiences from his time as a salesmen more than on empirical work. Furthermore Pease bases his theories on other researchers´ work(i.e. Edward T Hall) which could lead
Roman Jakobson
to a discussion on weather his material counts as a first hand or second hand source.
Author to a wide variety of literary works the Russian linguist Jakobson completed more
As the book is from 1981 it is still very relevant for modern day research, but it is worth
than 500 written works, and spent more than 60 years of his life abroad (teaching) as a
mentioning that the study of body language is still rather nascent.
result of the Russian revolution and Nazi occupation. Drawing on work by de Saussure and C.S Peirce, Jakobson made some of highly acclaimed works of language and even
Edward T. Hall
semiotics, and he is considered the founder of the structuralist analysis of language.
Edward T Hall was an anthropologist born and educated in the U.S.A and commonly
Additionally, Jakobson was interested in phonetics and poetic language, and his model
hailed as the creator of the concept of proxemics which he based most of his research
of communication had a great impact on the study of spoken language, which it was
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mostly used for. Alexander R. Cuthbert Alexander Cuthbert is currently a professor of Planning and Urban Development at the C.S. Peirce
University of New South Wales in Sydney. In addition, Cuthbert also possesses a
although educated as a scientist at Harvard University and contributing to several
doctorate from the London School of Economics and Political Science and has studied
acclaimed theories of science, Charles Sanders Peirce predominantly excelled as
architecture, urban design, urban planning and political science. It is important to be
philosopher. Apart from being a theorist of logic, he was most notably known as the
critical in relation to the political tendencies and motives Cuthbert’s background may
founder of semiotics and pragmatics. As the theories by Pierce are descended from
have had for his work as a researcher.
before 1914 it is relevant to investigate if and how the theories can be applied to modern day society.
Henri Lefebvre
Secondary sources
Henri Lefebvre was a French sociologist and philosopher. His book “The Production of Space” is from 1974 and is concerned with the relationship between bodies and spaces.
WebPages
When applying the theories by Lefebvre it is essential to mention his significant political
When using the internet as a source it is especially important to be critical to the
opinions which could impose some bias in his capacity as a researcher.
information stated. Pages such as Wikipedia are available for everyone and the information found is therefore often second hand. In our project, such sources have in
Kevin Lynch
fact been employed but with these considerations taking into account.
Was an American city planner and author of the book “The image of the city” where he presents his theories on the influence of architecture on space. Like Edward Hall, his
17. Summary in danish
theories are based on research made in America and even though they are more general it is still important to take note of this fact when looking at the validity of our sources as we use the theories in our analysis of Næstved and Copenhagen. Lynch’s book was, like
I vores projekt har vi valgt at fokusere på hvordan social interaktion manifestere sig i det
Hall’s, written in the 1960s which therefore means that new and more updated
offentlige rum, med fokus på den danske kultur. For at danne et indblik i hvordan denne
information can be found on the subject.
interaktion finder sted valgte vi at sammenligne to forskellige danske kulturmøsntre i det offentlige rum. Vi valgte et rum i i storbyen København kaldet Amagertorv, og
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henholdsvis et rum i en byen Næstved anlagt længere ude på landet, kaldet Axeltorv.
Vi har yderlige fundet det nødvendigt at lægge fokus på hvordan den arkitektoniske faktor kommer til udtryk i det offentlige og yderligere hvordan dette har indflydelse på den sociale interaktion, herunder kropssprog og proxemics.
Vi valgte efter at have observeret de to forskellige torv, kun at fokusere på den sociale interaktion og lave analytisk sammenligning med fokus udelukkende på dette. Det gjorde vi fordi vi fandt dette emne motiverende i processen af at forstå hvordan mennesker kommunikere med hinanden.
Efter at have observeret de to forskellige torv, blev det klart at der kun var behov for at fokusere på den sociale interaktion og lave analytisk sammenligning med fokus udelukkende på dette. Dette blev gjordt vi fordi vi fandt dette emne motiverende i processen af at forstå hvordan mennesker kommunikere med hinanden.
Igennem disse redegørelser, diskussioner og fortolkninger blev det klart at det offentlige rums funktion, norm og arkitektur har stor betydning for hvordan den sociale interaktion manifestere sig i dette rum.
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