Primer on Theory in Architecture

Karen Cordes Spence, Ph.D., AIA, teaches design studios and theory in architecture. Her work focuses on making these subjects both intriguing and clear for beginning students. Her research also explores the way in which phenomenological interpretations tap into the power of connections able to be made through architecture.

• Preface Introduction: Exploring the Subject of Theory in Architecture Why Theory in Architecture Needs Exploration How Theory in Architecture Has Escaped Investigation The Approach for this Work An Overview of the Discussions in the Book 1. Defining Theory Introduction The History of the Term Theorizing and Theorems The Elements of TheorizingCharacteristics of Theorizing 2. The Paradigms that Ground Theorizing Introduction Ontology, Epistemology and Methodology Four Worldviews The Cacophony of Worldviews Worldviews in the Discipline The Importance of Coherency Recognizing a Network of Theory in Architecture 3. The Place of Theory in the Discipline Introduction Theory and History Theory and Design Theory and Criticism Theory and Manifestoes The Relationship of Theorizing to Other Writings 4.Engaging in Theorizing and the Construction of Theorems Introduction A Checklist for Theorizing Index