The favored circle
Subtitle: the social foundations of architectural distinction
By: Garry Stevens.
Publisher: MIT Press
Published: 1998
Place of publication: Cambridge, Mass
Language: eng
Number of pages: 253
Subjects: Architecture and society; Architecture -- Social aspects
Description: Using the conceptual apparatus of French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, Stevens describes the field of architecture on two levels. First, he provides a detailed account of the field as it is at any given point in time, describing the different components and their relationships. Second, he analyzes the dynamics of the field through time, from the Renaissance to the present. He discusses the system of architectural education, as well as everyday aspects such as the competition for reputation.

He concludes that throughout history, the most eminent architects have been connected to each other by master-pupil and collegial relations. These networks, which still exist, provide a mechanism for architectural influence that runs parallel to that of the university-based schools.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. [224]-245) and index.