In praise of social distance in public spaces

Abstract

In the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, many have voiced the concern that social distancing in public spaces could negate the ability to connect with others and thereby diminish the sense of social belonging The reason why many find social distancing so difficult, and so off-putting is that it runs counter to so much of what makes life, especially city life, worthwhile Here, Melcher argues that social distance does not threaten people's ability to connect socially;it is a critical requirement for social interactions within public spaces Public spaces work well precisely because they allow for social distance, not because they overcome or bridge it The most important connections that public spaces provide are those of a public and social nature rather than those of an intimate or personal nature