Smart City: Dracula Urbanism

Smart city projects and their promises of improved efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life. However, these initiatives tend to prioritize the interests of powerful actors such as technology corporations and urban elites, neglecting the needs of marginalized communities. Smart city initiatives sometimes overlook the social and economic disparities that exist within urban environments. Wilson and Wyly (2022) called this the “Dracula Urbanism”, which draws inspiration from the fictional character Dracula who feeds on the lifeblood of society. In certain smart city initiatives, there is a parasitic nature which extract resources and benefits from the city while leaving certain groups at a disadvantage. The term serves as a critique of the top-down, profit-driven approaches that fail to address the underlying social injustices and power imbalances within urban environments.

Smart city initiatives should acknowledge and challenge power asymmetries, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind or further disadvantaged. There is an urgency for a more democratic and participatory approach to urban development that prioritizes social justice and community empowerment. Smart city initiatives should go beyond technological solutions and consider the social, economic, and political dimensions of urban development. Emphasis on the need for inclusive, equitable, and participatory approaches to ensure that smart cities address the needs of all residents, especially marginalized communities.

Reference:

Wilson, D., & Wyly, E. (2022). Toward a Dracula urbanism: Smart city building in Flint and Jakarta. Dialogues in Urban Research, 27541258221134500.

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