Spatial justice is a concept that has emerged as a response to the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in society. It recognizes that space plays a crucial role in shaping the social, economic, and environmental conditions that people experience. Spatial justice seeks to ensure that all individuals and communities have equal access to the resources they need to thrive, regardless of their geographic location, race, or class. One key aspect of spatial justice is the recognition that the design and use of space can have a significant impact on social and economic outcomes. For example, the location of affordable housing, public transportation, and community services can all affect access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Spatial justice seeks to promote equitable access to these resources by advocating for policies and practices that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities. Another important aspect of spatial justice is the recognition that power and identity play a significant role in shaping spatial practices. Historically, urban planning and design have been dominated by white, male, and middle-class perspectives, which has resulted in the marginalization of other groups. Spatial justice seeks to challenge these power dynamics by promoting inclusive and participatory decision-making processes that involve a diversity of voices and perspectives. Overall, spatial justice is a complex and multifaceted concept that seeks to promote equitable access to resources and opportunities for all individuals and communities. It recognizes the importance of space in shaping social and economic outcomes, and advocates for inclusive and participatory decision-making processes that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities.
resources, opportunities, equitable, access, power dynamics
Spatial Justice can be defined as an approach to architecture and urban design which focuses on achieving equitable and inclusive spatial outcomes. It involves considerations of power, identity and representation in spatial practices and is concerned with the way in which space shapes the everyday lives of people. Spatial Justice seeks to create spaces that are both socially just and environmentally sustainable, and which enable access to the full range of services, resources and opportunities for all members of society. It therefore requires a broad range of stakeholders and decision-makers to be involved in the design process so as to ensure that a diversity of voices and perspectives are taken into account.
equitable design, spatial representation, urban planning, place-making, social sustainability.
CITATION : "Ji-Soo Park. 'Spatial Justice.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=197460 (Accessed on June 07, 2025)"
Spatial justice is a concept that recognizes the role of space in relation to the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. It emphasizes the idea that all people have an equal right to access social, economic, and environmental resources. Spatial justice seeks to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to access these resources in the places they live, work, and play. By understanding how decisions made around the design and use of space can affect access to resources and opportunity, spatial justice aims to promote equitable access to resources regardless of traditional dividing lines such as geography, race, and class.
Equity, Justice, Accessibility.
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