In August 2023, we, Parisa Setayesh and Coline Chevrin, started a conversation about adding an initiative to HASTAC Scholars program. Our initiative to engage in this dialogue stemmed from a simple realization: the conversations we have, the ideas we exchange, and the disagreements we navigate can become seeds of meaningful academic and practical exploration. So inspired by the dynamic interactions at the HASTAC Scholars welcome event, we recognized a palpable desire among our peers for a forum that facilitated free-form, spontaneous, and deep discussions. The following Dialogue was to pilot this format by discussing the discourse around Smart cities from two different angles.
In this pilot we talked a little about the nuanced landscapes of smart city technologies, climate adaptation, urban resilience, and the pivotal role of community engagement in shaping urban futures. Through this exchange, we delve into the complexities of integrating technological solutions within urban frameworks, emphasizing the importance of local participation, digital literacy, and ethical considerations in data usage.
The Community and the Smart City
Parisa Setayesh: “The ethical dimensions of smart city initiatives cannot be overstated. … the focus must remain on ensuring that these advancements contribute positively to the fabric of urban communities, prioritizing sustainability, equity, and resilience.”
Coline Chevrin: “The essence of smart city initiatives, especially in contexts like Rosario, hinges on their ability to resonate with the lived experiences of local communities. It’s about leveraging grassroots innovations and ensuring digital solutions are accessible, relevant, and, most importantly, driven by the needs of those they aim to serve. This perspective challenges us to rethink the notion of ‘smart’ in smart cities, advocating for a more inclusive, participatory, and justice-oriented approach to urban development.”
Through this process, we not only explored the intersections of our academic research but also to offer insights and reflections that could inspire fellow scholars, policymakers, and community leaders. Our conversation underscores the critical need for interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and advancing the concept of smart cities, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of community engagement and the ethical deployment of technology in creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban spaces. As we continue to navigate this evolving discourse, we hope our dialogue serves as a catalyst for further exploration, collaboration, and innovation in the realm of smart cities and beyond.