ABSTRACT

Due to its fragile infrastructure, the city of Venice has been virtually impossible to develop substantially. In early modernity it became a semi-abandoned site which was appreciated aesthetically by the romantic, contemplative eye. Lord Byron even wanted to be buried in the “sinking ruin.” Tourism changed the city. As one now fights through its crowds, one could ask: is contemplation the way to appreciate this “ruined” place, or should one engage the city more like a hike, physically interacting with its new life? Perhaps the phenomenon of tourism demands a change of theoretical perspective, from contemplation (e.g., Kant) to engagement (e.g., Dewey).