STUDY FOCUS This paper explores the relevance of Elinor Ostrom’s theories on the commons to urban planning, emphasizing the importance of relationality in fostering collective action. It examines how interpersonal connections at farmers’ markets illustrate a network of relationships that enhance community engagement. The authors argue that understanding social connections can address urban injustices and promote cooperation, urging planners to rethink governance strategies to prioritize empathy and community ties. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The paper recommends designing urban policies that foster relationality by creating spaces for interpersonal connections, such as communitycentered markets and integrated social services, to combat alienation and enhance collective action in urban environments. Lejano, R. P., and W. S. Kan (2024). “The relational dimensions of collective action.” Planning Theory & Practice, 25(3):413-419. STUDY FOCUS This article addresses the pressing global challenges faced by contemporary society, such as climate change and the risks associated with artificial intelligence. It argues that while scientific and technological advancements have made strides, there remains a significant gap in effectively mobilizing social and political capacities for collective action. This disconnect arises from a tendency to approach complex global crises through unidimensional frameworks, which fail to capture their multifaceted nature. To address these challenges, the authors propose an integrative approach grounded in the paradigm of social ecology. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of social and environmental systems, encouraging a focus not only on the carbon footprint of society but also on the broader social implications of carbon emissions. The article outlines the core principles of social ecology and highlights its potential to foster collaborative research and enhance collective action, ultimately leading to more effective strategies for global governance. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The policy recommendation put forth advocates for the adoption of a social ecological framework in policymaking and governance. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and integrating social factors into environmental policies, decisionmakers can develop more holistic strategies that address the root causes of global crises. This approach aims to inspire innovative solutions and strengthen collective responses to the urgent challenges facing humanity. Lejano, R. P., and Daniel Stokols. “Social Ecological Systems in Flux.” Annual Review of Sociology 50 (2024). 24 SCHOLARLY SHOWCASE
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