Architecture Showing Political Strength
I believe architecture is a highly political act, so it's often a topic of intense debate. It is a significant and permanent marker of civilization and reflects a society's relationship to power. For example, when former US President Trump issued an executive order mandating neoclassicism as the architectural style for the US federal government, it sparked controversy. Some people view classical architecture with suspicion and associate it with fascism. I think the decision to use classical architecture in our governmental buildings is a strong and wise political statement.
Architecture is a reflection of our positive political values and a manifestation of the contentious cultural battles in society. The Parthenon, the birthplace of classical architecture and a Western aesthetic tradition, is an excellent example. Recently, the Greek government installed a ramp for wheelchair access to the Parthenon, taking advantage of the COVID epidemic. While this was an important step towards accessibility, it also sparked a debate about whether such changes should be made to historical sites and monuments. I think such access should be installed at historical sites, but an architect (we help of others) should tastefully design the ramp to blend into the landscape - not look dropped in. The organization and proportions of classical architecture can help with the placement of such updates to historical sites without taking away the beauty of the place.
Architecture plays a significant role in our society and politics. It reflects our values and relationships with power and often sparks intense debate and controversy.
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