| Abstract [eng] |
The theoretical groundwork of power discourse used in this paper is based on the works of four French authors: M. Foucault, P. Bourdieu, M. de Certeau and J. Baudrillard. The different aspects that these authors explore in their search for the meaning of power enable one to look at different aspects in a system of power relations: power itself, which emanates from a power source and reaches everyday agents by means of a power mediator. As the separation of the power source from the everyday agents that it strives to influence increases predominantly, the power mediator plays a crucial role, as it enables power to dissipate without direct contact between the two acting parts of the power equation. The aim of this paper is to define what characterizes the power mediators that influence power relations in contemporary urban public space. In order to achieve this aim, first of all the main theoretical aspects were analyzed from M. Foucault's concept of disciplinary power, P. Bourdieu's field theory, M. de Certeau's practice of everyday life and J. Baudrillard's simulations. A theoretical analysis of the aforementioned allows for constructing a model of power circulation in a form which may later be applied to further research power relations in urban public space. Qualitative research was conducted in two stages in Berlin and Vilnius. The first stage used photographic documentation as the primary method for data gathering. 732 photographs were made and analyzed. During the second stage 16 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Research results expose the clockwork of power mediators in the reality of urban public spaces in two different cities. Material objects, empowered persons and everyday agents may all play the role of power mediators. Other characteristic traits of power mediators are their ability to induct fission in the system of power relations and inhibit the circulation of power with simulacraic properties. In addition, power mediators are the residue in urban space of the constant tension between power strategies and everyday tactics. The study of power mediators reveals the relation between power strategies and everyday tactics and how they flow through different parts of the city. |
