Architecture and the politics of nationalism in the era of globalization

Abstract

Architecture is a physical force and a communication medium that speaks to power of value and ideals of a society through effective communication of socio-political messages embedded in its physical configurations. It helps to create the physical as well as the political institutions of establishments in the society that embodies the civilization codes of “law and order.” However, the power of architecture as a political propaganda tool is reminiscent of nationalism in many facets and circumstances. In the past imperial establishments, the ruler used architecture as a control tool to influence the people’s perception of the state and the achievements of the civilization. Whereas, the later civilization of globalization in the 21st century helps to create the institutional establishments of democratic architecture with a renewed strategy to wield power to entertain and gain political and socio-economic supports for the governments and corporate organizations. This review therefore demonstrates the role of architecture in the politics of power and influence vividly evident in the emergent democracies and some current establishments of globalization, a case reference of Dubai.