4.2.1. Conceived Space

Which is normally referred with a geographical location by the Latitude and longitude, and it also reflects through its material form and which is a physical features...

This chunk introduces the concept of space as it relates to geographical locations defined by coordinates such as latitude and longitude. It emphasizes that space is not just about physical features like hills, coastal areas, or architecture. It signifies that these places carry meanings and values that communities associate with them, which contributes to their identity. Therefore, space is understood as a product of both its physical characteristics and the cultural significance attached to it.

Think of a city park: While its geographical location is defined by coordinates, the emotional and social attachments people have to it—like memories of family gatherings or community events—shape how they perceive and value that space. This shows how the identity of a place goes beyond mere physical features.

So many geographers talk about place is a social construct, Doreen Massey talks about it is a social construct...

This part highlights the idea that places are not just physical locations but are social constructs shaped by collective human experiences and interactions. Doreen Massey points out that our understanding of place arises from the society we live in, indicating that individuals contribute to creating the identity and meaning of places through their actions and beliefs. Places are dynamic and can evolve based on societal changes.

Consider the significance of a shopping mall. For some, it is merely a building with shops. For others, it represents a social hub where friends gather, or it might even symbolize a community's economic health. Thus, its social meaning is shaped by the experiences and interactions of the people who frequent it.

A small example for the students to understand I hope many of you have seen the movie of Cast Away...

In this section, the narrative shifts to the movie 'Cast Away' to illustrate how a person’s relationship with a place develops. Tom Hanks' character finds himself on a deserted island, and despite having no human contact, he builds a sense of belonging and identity through his experiences. He creates a home by adapting to his environment and forms a bond with a volleyball, naming it Wilson. This illustrates the profound emotional attachments humans can form with places and objects.

Just like how some people might keep a childhood toy or a book that reminds them of home, Tom Hanks' character finds connection and companionship with Wilson the volleyball. This analogy helps to underline that even an inanimate object can provide comfort and a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar space.

So here whatever it is not just only for the food or the shelter it is how a man makes a sense of belonging with other individual...

This chunk discusses the depth of emotional connections that individuals can develop with non-living companions or objects in isolated settings. The character's actions towards Wilson show that emotional bonds occur even in the absence of other humans. This amplifies the significance of shared experiences in shaping our identity and sense of belonging in any given space.

When people travel, they may collect souvenirs that symbolize their journey, like a small decorative item from a new city. These items often evoke memories and emotions tied to the experience, similar to how Wilson represented companionship and emotional support in the movie.

So that is where people may have rejected for their livelihood needs the proximity or their cattle needs with their social needs...

In this segment, the focus is on post-disaster recovery and the complexities involved. People often reject housing solutions after disasters not just because they are provided for free or temporarily, but because such solutions may not meet their deeper social, cultural, and economic needs. This insight prompts the re-evaluation of what constitutes adequate housing beyond just physical structures, pointing towards the need for solutions that align with the lived experiences and values of affected communities.

Imagine after a flood, a family is offered a new home far from their previous community. While the house is physically sound, it may not feel like home due to the absence of familiar surroundings, neighbors, or connections. Therefore, the value of location, community ties, and cultural significance plays a crucial role in their acceptance of housing post-disaster.

So when we talk about the theoretical understanding of the place and space, one of the important understanding one has to look at the Henry Lefebvre works the production of space...

This segment introduces Henry Lefebvre's framework of understanding space, notably the concept of three types: conceived space, perceived space, and lived space. Conceived space refers to how planners and scientists conceptualize space, often influenced by ideologies. Perceived space involves daily practices and interactions within spaces, while lived space relates to the personal, emotional connections people form with their environments. Together, these dimensions help analyze how spaces are created and understood culturally.

Think of a classroom: it can be conceived as a space designed for learning (conceived space), students engage in activities and discussions (perceived space), and they develop memories and friendships that give the room emotional significance (lived space). This analogy reinforces the importance of considering all dimensions to fully appreciate how we relate to our environments.

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