«Structuration theory» and urban studies: An innovative approach to study the transformation of cities?

Abstract

This paper examines the applicability of Anthony Giddens «structuration theory» in urban studies. It is argued that despite practical and conceptual difficulties, this theoretical position offers elements to theoretically inform innovative studies about urban transformation. The concluding section puts forward some general recommendations and illustrates how some concepts derived from «structuration theory» can be deployed to examine more integrally urban phenomena as the revitalization and decline of central urban areas.