The Built Environment and Spatial Form

The relevant literature on the concepts of the built environment & the use of space is reviewed to identify the major areas of research in terms of issues, theories, & major contributions. The built environment is defined as any physical alteration to the natural environment, & "built forms" are defined as building types created by humans. Most early theories originated in anthropological research, eg, L. H. Morgan's notion of built form (Houses and House-Life of the American Aborigines, Chicago: U of Chicago Press, 1965 [1881]). There have also been many adherents of the structuralist approach to the built environment, the major proponent being Claude Levi-Strauss. Going beyond the structuralist approach, Pierre Bourdieu emphasizes praxis, or the role of action, in defining sociospatial order. Social & cultural studies of the interaction between humans & the built environment have increased significantly in the last several years, but the empirical work & theoretical development are not yet consistent. Additional research in the areas of social organization & symbolism is needed; in addition to its own merits, this work could provide a support base for improved theoretical development in regard to social production. 395 References. J. W. Stanton