Counteracting the Neoliberal City

This book presents a groundbreaking theoretical and methodological framework for analyzing urban phenomena and urban policies and a pioneering approach to urban regeneration projects. The text advocates for an “Integral and Recognitive Urban Regeneration” of public spaces in cities to confront current neoliberal urban policies, which have been ineffective in achieving genuine overall “wellbeing” in contemporary urban environments. “Integral and Recognitive Urban Regeneration” is a macro-process composed of several micro-contextualized urban projects that account for the complexity of urban spaces. This process goes beyond merely enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of architectural spaces, rather presenting itself as an educational, community-oriented, cooperative, creative, socializing, eco-friendly, multidisciplinary, and transdisciplinary process that serves as a platform for regenerating compromised ecosystems; promoting the cognitive, psychological, emotional, social, and political empowerment of resident communities; and addressing local and global forms of social and ecological injustice. As such, this book is an essential resource for students, researchers, academics, and experienced planners alike.