Rethinking Urban Futures

3 units

This course examines the evolving discourse on urbanism through systems thinking, emphasizing the interconnected social, ecological, and economic forces that shape cities. Drawing on critical perspectives from diverse disciplines, it invites students to explore how urbanism can respond to the urgent and complex challenges of climate change, social justice, and societal polarization. Central to this exploration is the development of new imaginaries—innovative ideas that envision urban futures as equitable and regenerative. The seminar challenges dominant paradigms in urbanism, including the role of anthropogenic agency in shaping environments, EuroAmerican views of Nature, and reliance on technocratic solutions to ecological crises. Students will identify opportunities to disrupt entrenched inequities and create adaptive strategies that center justice and regeneration as principles for rethinking urban futures. Through critical readings, discussions, collaborative projects, and alternative media —film, fiction, podcasts— students will engage with foundational and emerging ideas in urbanism to inspire imaginative responses to today’s challenges. Together, we will examine how design practices have historically reflected systems of power while envisioning strategies that prioritize equity, sustainability, and resilience. This course fosters a community of learning dedicated to reimagining urban systems and crafting transformative approaches for more just and inclusive futures.