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The Magic of the Marketplace: Sociality in a Neglected Public Space

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  • Sophie Watson

    (Department of Sociology, Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK, s.watson@open.ac.uk)

Abstract

This study explores the potentiality of markets as public space where multiple forms of sociality are enacted. Research was conducted in eight UK markets. The research revealed that markets represented a significant public and social space for different groups in the locality as a site for vibrant social encounters, for social inclusion and the care of others, for `rubbing along' and for mediating differences. The article concludes by arguing that the social encounters and connections found in markets contradict pessimistic accounts of the decline of social association, offering a contrast to the shopping mall and providing the possibility for the inclusion of marginalised groups and for the co-mingling of differences where these are increasingly relegated to more private spheres.

Suggested Citation

  • Sophie Watson, 2009. "The Magic of the Marketplace: Sociality in a Neglected Public Space," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 46(8), pages 1577-1591, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:46:y:2009:i:8:p:1577-1591
    DOI: 10.1177/0042098009105506
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    Cited by:

    1. Yun-Myong Yi & Tae-Hyoung Tommy Gim, 2018. "What Makes an Old Market Sustainable? An Empirical Analysis on the Economic and Leisure Performances of Traditional Retail Markets in Seoul," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 10(6), pages 1-22, May.
    2. Mark Azavedo & John Walsh, 2018. "How important is Food at Farmers’ Markets? Evidence from Bardon Farmers’ Market, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia," Academic Journal of Economic Studies, Faculty of Finance, Banking and Accountancy Bucharest,"Dimitrie Cantemir" Christian University Bucharest, vol. 4(3), pages 32-39, September.

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