Exercises in reflexive urbanism

Abstract

Since some time on, the practice of citizen participation is spreading in the urban theory. Not everywhere, but certainly in the Emilia-Romagna Region, with some appreciable results. There is an increasing awareness that people must somehow be at the center of the planning process. Aside from the more conventional forms of participation, which often resolve into mere rituals public presentations rather than substantial, the so-called integrated laboratories are occasions when the birth of a new way of planning may perhaps happen, through a town planning activity that is more reflective. With a really careful attitude intended to listen to the public, open to dialogue, which is available to adapt ideas, and able to learn during the participation activity.