ABSTRACT
Among the many spatial and graphic terms used to describe cities in urban studies literature – centers, nodes, nexes, -scapes, densities, etc. – one rarely encounters the word “target.” Though equally spatial – invoking an arc, a line, a trajectory – it differs from these others by implying some motive force, and, more than that, a force with some intentionality. To target is of course to aim, to project, and ultimately to impact. It suggests a space of violence, or at least action, or at least movement resulting in displacement, which most of these other terms do not. In that sense it is useful, underused, and perhaps revelatory, which is why we’ve made it the leitmotif of this book.
