Places and Non-Places: Introduction to an Anthropology of Supermodernity

"Places" are locations with meaningful social and cultural connections, like homes or neighborhoods, where people establish identities and relationships. In contrast, "Non-places" are transient spaces such as airports, shopping malls, or highways—designed for movement and consumption but lack deep social meaning. The concept of "Supermodernity" describes a contemporary era characterized by an explosion of non-places, reflecting a world that emphasizes speed, globalization, and individual mobility. Analyzing these spaces helps us understand how modern life shapes identity, community, and social interaction in an era where many spaces are fleeting and superficial.