The Systemic Affect of Culture, Power, and Terror in the Southern Public Space. (17th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Evans, Jocelyn J.; Gåddie, Keith
• Other Names: Evans Jocelyn J. guestEditor.; Lees William B. guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Social science quarterly. Volume 102:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 1151
• Page End: 1166
• Publication Date: 2021-04-17
• Subjects: Political science -- Periodicals; Social sciences -- Periodicals; 300
• DOI: 10.1111/ssqu.12972
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-4941

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: We explore how political space is disrupted by racialized politics, and how differentiated affect among racial groups emerge in the political space. Method: We use Goodsell's architectural classifications of public space in conjunction with systems theory to ascertain how differing architectural affects of pride and heritage versus terror and oppression are experienced in the post‐bellum South. Historic data of lynchings and Klan activity are accompanied by examination of individual narratives and multiple qualitative case analysis of architectural elements of courthouse squares, courthouses, and courtrooms to illustrate racial affect and social meaning in the built environment of the Jim Crow era. Results: Hyperlocalism in southern government and racial violence and also symbolism and the elements of courthouse design reinforce white supremacy. Conclusions: Individual and collective memory are influenced by the reinforcement of a racial order through systematic design, architectural design, and symbols. To understand community memory requires a more granular and contextual examination to understand the role of the built environment in defining, parameterizing, and understanding systemic racism.