Reflections on Urban Crises, the Science-Policy Interface and the Importance of “Tiny Revolts”

Abstract

There is barely a field of academic research not subject to crisis claims. Many urban crises span careers and take significant emotional tolls. This is not due to a lack of effort. Academic productivity, as it is typically measured, is rapidly increasing and success claims commonplace. This article reflects critically upon the science-policy interface and interprets the work of Julia Kristeva to discuss the importance of creating “tiny revolts” able to rescale and reframe inquiry, and to problematise success. I argue these revolts hold potential in sustaining ourselves and others, as well as in creating new acts of critical thinking.