“Theory of the Dérive”
Guy Debord
Dérive is defined as a method of travelling to unplanned destinations enabling one to be aware of and understand the relations between the geographical environment and one’s emotion and behavior. During the period, one would put aside their daily routine and wander as they allow themselves to be attracted by certain elements from the environment.
Discussion Questions
- Technology has become the killer machine for our brains and our spatial awareness, however, it has helped develop and remold part of our world for the better. Are there any ways for us balance it out?
- More and more people are tuned into the idea of being healthy. However, people are only focusing on the physical aspect rather than the psychological side. Would practicing patience help keep our minds healthy?
It is rare for any of us to just wander around the city without a destination or aim in mind. And it seems almost impossible for us to put our daily routines and worries aside. But its important to set time for ourselves to clear our heads, not only for health benefits also it allows us to learn more about ourselves and even bring out thoughts embedded into our subconscious mind. I agree with what Debord said where “men can see nothing around them that is not their own image, everything speaks to them of themselves. Their very landscape is alive.” We are drawn to things based on our preference, our personality and our mood. They are the elements that make up our identity, which differentiates us from one another.
