3.4. Absolute and Differential Space

In this work, Indu have adopted Lefebvre’s theory of production of space because this is one of the sociological component where Lefebvre, Henri Lefebvre talked about 3 different ontological positions of place, how it gets transformed.

Henri Lefebvre's theory describes how space is produced and understood from three points of view: the perceived space, conceived space, and lived space. The perceived space refers to the everyday experiences and practices of people using a space. Conceived space is about how planners and visionaries design and imagine a space based on their ideologies. Lived space reflects the emotional connections and social practices that people have with a place, showing their attachment and experiences.

Think of a park in a city. For local people, it is a place to meet friends and enjoy leisure time (perceived space). The city planners may have designed the park to enhance the neighborhood and promote natural beauty (conceived space). However, during festivals, the community may use the park for cultural events, adding layers of meaning and connection (lived space).

This actual theory about he talks about the absolute space which is where, the perceived space, where there is a vernacular context... Whereas, in the differential space when the time moves on and then how different priorities and different conflict setups are adapted and how a differential space is produced.

Absolute space refers to the original conditions of a space before it is influenced by any other factors. It is the baseline or foundation of what the space is perceived to be. On the other hand, differential space emerges over time as people's needs, priorities, and conflicts change. So, as people interact, adapt, and evolve in that space, its meaning and structure transform, reflecting ongoing social dynamics.

Imagine a community center. Initially, it serves as a neutral place for town meetings (absolute space). Over years, as different groups use it for various purposes—like art classes, sports events, and celebrations—the center's role evolves. It becomes a hub of activity and identity, representing the community's changing dynamics and needs (differential space).

As a part of the DAAD scholarship, Indu also got an exchange program in Tu Munich and she has visited some of the cases of the displacement cases in Germany as well and Paris.

Indu Shaji's research involved examining various case studies of refugees and their societal adaptations across different countries. Through her exchange program in Germany, she was able to gather insights and data from firsthand experiences related to refugee displacement and integration in contexts outside India, enriching her understanding of refugee spaces.

Consider a student studying migration patterns in different countries. They may travel to various cities to see how immigrants establish communities, learn about their struggles, and adapt to new cultures. This experiential learning can provide valuable insights into how displaced people create new identities and spaces in foreign lands.

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