psychogéographie

Psychogeography is a term coined by the Situationist International in the 1950s. It refers to the study of the effects of the geographical environment on the emotions and behavior of individuals. This field explores how places, cities, and landscapes can influence our feelings, thoughts, and actions in ways that are often unconscious. Psychogeographers might engage in activities like "dérives," which involve aimless wandering through urban areas to discover unexpected connections and atmospheric qualities of different neighborhoods. The aim is to understand the underlying psychological and emotional currents that shape our experience of space. It's not just about mapping physical locations, but about mapping the subjective experience of those locations. Psychogeography can involve exploring the history of a place, its architecture, social dynamics, and even its perceived "mood." The Situationists used psychogeography as a tool to critique modern urban planning and capitalist society, arguing that these environments often lead to alienation and a loss of authentic experience. They believed that by understanding and re-enchanting our surroundings, individuals could regain a sense of agency and creativity. While originating in the context of the Situationist movement, the concept of psychogeography has influenced various fields, including art, literature, urban studies, and critical geography. It encourages a more mindful and introspective engagement with the spaces we inhabit.