Genealogies of power: architectural responses to crisis in historical and contemporary contexts

Since its beginnings, architecture has served not only as a means of providing shelter but also as a significant manifestation of power. Starting with definitions of both architecture and power, this paper traces a potential genealogy of their relationship across four distinct historical periods: Antiquity, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and the modern era. The analysis situates architecture as a medium of control, surveillance, and social organization, revealing how power structures are embedded within architectural forms and practices. The study concludes by addressing two key challenges of power in architecture: the environmental crisis and war.