Non-Place (Marc Augé)

Non-places, a concept introduced by anthropologist Marc Augé, refer to spaces that lack significant meaningful connections to the people who experience them. These include airports, highways, hotels, and shopping malls—places of transit or consumption rather than social interaction. Unlike "places," which have historical, cultural, or emotional significance and forge community ties, non-places are characterized by anonymity and uniformity. They facilitate movement and functionality but often feel impersonal, reflecting a modern society increasingly focused on efficiency over meaningful connections. Understanding non-places helps us recognize how contemporary urban life shapes our experiences and interactions.