The subject offers a thematic inquiry into architectural and urban theory in the broader context of philosophical schools of thought and cultural and social conditions, which may include modernism, postmodernism, phenomenology, semiotics, post-structuralism, deconstruction and critical regionalism. These themes will guide the organization of weekly lecture and discussions, which will proceed from the establishment of a basic theoretical apparatus to the examination of specific cases. These will supply us with tools for the analysis of specific architectural situations. Students will develop a written synopsis of a designated reading, and an in-depth and analytical research paper on the designated topic.

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The teaching objectives of this module are:

1. To engage students with relevant theories which have shaped cities and experience around architecture, including its role as mediator between our society and its architecture.

2. To provide critical perspectives on key issues within the contemporary discourse of architecture, through integration of case-studies and theoretical studies.

3. To enhance the understanding of the complexity of architecture and the ability to undertake independent research.