ABSTRACT
Chapter 1 provides a comprehensive exploration of Western heritage practices in architectural conservation, focusing on the preservation of physical assets, original materials, and cultural perspectives on decay. By delving into the historical motives behind this approach and introducing the concept of the ‘authorised heritage discourse’, the chapter prompts a critical examination of the stability of conventional conservation methods and their influence on broader concepts like authenticity and value. It also delves into the existential fears associated with aging societies, the significance of ruins, the consequences of demolition, and the preservation and material fetish within western conservation practices. While acknowledging the historical and philosophical developments that shaped the emphasis on physical heritage, the chapter suggests the need to embrace a broader range of concerns and motivations to ensure that conservation practices remain relevant and adaptable to evolving societal needs, and therefore setting the stage for a more inclusive and dynamic approach to heritage preservation.
