Place Based Research

When you study a place, you learn about different disciplines and how they intersect in space and time. 

Place based research is often used as a way to situate a broader inquiry in a local environment. Because place based research can take many forms and involve different disciplines it's important to develop a clear, specific research question in order to determine what kinds of sources you should consult. 

Places are intertwined with social systems. It is impossible to investigate any site without also exploring the social, ecological, political, cultural, and economic issues that happen in that place. 

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Social issue research intersects with any form of site-specific investigation.

In urban areas like NYC, the idea of "the right to the city"--who the city is for--is manifested in architecture, as policy and governance, and as social and ecological infrastructure. Whether or not a space is accessible, surveilled, affordable, and equitable depends on who and how place-making happens. In an era of hyper-capitalism and economic stratification, more spaces are restricted and privatized, which has intensified debates over "the right to the city."

Where to find information about social issues?

For contemporary issues the best places to find information are newspapers and internet research (including social media, where some grassroots groups are most active). It is very important to find trustworthy information so it's helpful to find an organization that you trust and then look to find intersecting networks.

Grounding your research in a specific place is important. Grassroots coalitions are usually working on site-specific or population specific issues. 

For historic issues, you can find more information in local newspapers, books, archives, and documentary film. 

Example of local organizations working on social justice (contemporary)

New York Communities for Change multi-issue organization with a mission to harness collective power and bring about legislative change that lead to more affordable and environmentally sustainable neighborhoods.

Public Power NY Grassroots coalition working to make our power infrastructure a public good.

Vocal NY Grassroots membership organization centering low-income communities impacted by HIV/AIDS, Drug Policy, Incarceration, Homelessness.

NYPIRG (New York Political Interest Research Group) non-profit research and educational organization that works on public policy changes including environmental justice, voter rights, affordable education, and accessible transit. We have our own NYPIRG representative on campus (check them out!)

New York Immigration Coalition umbrella policy and advocacy organization that works directly with local immigrant rights groups.

Rise and Resist Non-violent direct action group that responds to government oppression.