Radical Praxis and Civic Network Design

Abstract

Technology-powered civic networks are social constructions that develop in relation to a particular macro-structure. Macro-structural realities such as differential access to power and resources modulate how effective actors are in inscribing their preferences into emergent network forms. With civic network design viewed as the locus of conflict and struggle, the designer must consciously cultivate an outlook of reflexivity. Social learning is foundational to the means as well as ends of socially-progressive design work. Current socially-progressive civic network design practice is analogous to advocacy planning in urban planning, where designers advocate for social inclusion.