Theorizing in architecture : an examination of the texts of Frampton, Rossi, and Lang /
Recent discussions of the subject of theory in architecture
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| Format: | Thesis Book |
| Language: | English |
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[Place of publication not identified] :
[publisher not identified] ;
1996.
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://proxy.library.tamu.edu/login?url=http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=739653671&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=2945&RQT=309&VName=PQD |
| Summary: | Recent discussions of the subject of theory in architecture often presuppose what is meant by the term "theory." As a result, the term has been used rather loosely and with a wide array of meanings. This study examines the subject of theory in order to begin an elucidation of what it means to theorize, framing the possibilities of this subject to allow a better understanding of its elements and characteristics. Such an elucidation aids the accessibility of theoretical investigations in the profession, provides a fundamental structure for the activity of theorizing and the construction of theorems, and discourages the postrationalization of connections between idea and form. The investigation begins by examining traditional definitions of the term theory." Theory" is defined as a clarification. It may be in the form of a doctrine or explanatory scheme. The activity of clarifying is distinguished from the clarification resultant, recognizing a distinction between "theorizing" and theorem." From this beginning, a number of other characteristics are identified in theorizing. This elucidation of theorizing is then used in an examination of several recent texts that are commonly recognized to be a part of the subject of theory in architecture. Specifically, the writings of Kenneth Frampton, Aldo Rossi, and Jon Lang--selected because of the nature of their approaches--will be studied to evaluate their contents, noting strengths and weaknesses. These works will also be considered in terms of their correlation with the previously noted elements and characteristics of theorizing. Investigating selected writings provides an understanding of how theorizing functions in architecture as well as examines and tests the identified elements and characteristics of theorizing. The elucidation of theorizing, along with Frampton's critical theory, Rossi's typological and analogical approaches, and Lang's behavioral science, present a beginning for a deeper understanding of theorizing in architecture. Correlations and conflicts are identified to disclose the variety of perspectives that constitute the subject of theory in architecture. |
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| Item Description: | Vita. "Major Subject: Architecture". |
| Physical Description: | viii, 147 leaves ; 28 cm. Issued also on microfiche from University Microfilms Inc. |
| Bibliography: | Includes bibliographical references: pages 145-146. |