Engaged dialogue through data: For methodological pluralism in critical urban studies

Abstract

This commentary builds on Loretta Lees’ concept of engaged dialogue in critical urban studies to argue for more engaged dialogue through data. This type of dialogue would entail building critical theory from a more diverse and nuanced base of information, using mixed or plural methodologies. It could mean communicating with, about and through data with public-facing tools that incorporate participatory elements through the user interface. It would also require ongoing critical interpretation of the politics and political economy of urban data.