Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book offers architects an entry into a work of theory. The epistemology views architecture as an engineering technology and an objective frame on one side yet, and comprehends it through many subjective perceptions, experiences and symbolic interpretations. Architectural theory lends itself to semiotics: buildings are interpreted in terms of language of signs; they are analyzed in terms of symbolic meanings. Commonly, architectural theory either takes society as a source of explaining architecture. Else, architecture is a mechanism for exercising control and shaping the social. In the first case, buildings mirror societal change and reflect economic factors, broader macrocosmic organization and cultural frameworks. In the second case, buildings are instruments that are imbued with the power to transform society and to affect social practices. The methodological and conceptual roots of the Mapping Controversies approach stem from discipline of Science and Technology Studies (STS).