Urban visual representation and ethical narrative risks

Abstract

Short videos have facilitated the representation of urban physical space within the media landscape. However, this representation intentionally or unintentionally conveys certain ethical narrative issues and risks. This study utilizes DTM and social network analysis, focusing on videos and comments related to the urban landscape of Philadelphia on YouTube, aiming to awaken a new urban ethical narrative. The study reveals that the visual representation of Philadelphia not only reshapes the city's physical space but also extends its mediated memory through symbolic urban imagery. Moreover, Philadelphia's urban narrative exhibits dynamic characteristics of social construction. Throughout the evolution of urban themes at different stages, society's memory of Philadelphia emerges as a process of continuous creation, revision, and reconstruction by both recorders and viewers. Additionally, while society is engaged in weaving urban memory, the narrative obscurity stemming from stereotypes and narrative biases, alongside the narrative imbalance in how recorders and viewers construct urban memory, can easily distort the authentic image of the city. These factors present potential ethical risks in the narratives produced by urban visual media. Therefore, it is essential to advocate for values rooted in humanitarianism and peaceful order, thereby fostering the creation of a “harmonious city.”