THE LOGICS OF THE PRODUCTION OF THE NEOLIBERAL CITY:

BETWEEN THE CONCEIVED SPACE AND THE LIVED SPACE

Abstract

The dialectic interplay between social and spatial aspects is a well-established approach in critical urban theory. From that perspective we reflect on the opposed and complementary rationalities that intervene in the production of the neoliberal city. By drawing on the ideas of Henri Lefebvre and his master work on the production of space, especially his interpretation of the city based on, on the one side, the rationality of production – decisions taken by urban government and power groups –, and on the other, social appropriation – neighbours and everyday practices. New conflicts and urban crisis emerge constantly, and in this regard, it is relevant to reflect on Lefebvre’s theoretical and methodological basis in order to better understand the tricky production of the city. By focusing on the Lefebvrian dual rationality, we examine practices that trigger socio-spatial injustice – anchored in the conceived space –; and potential collective actions – as a part of the lived space – since they aim to resolve injustices and recover the city as a commons.