Urban networks and arborescence: a view of rhizome connections

Abstract

The study of urban networks can be considered the main theme of this text. Considering this, it is necessary to ask whether traditional approaches to urban networks effectively explain the concrete reality? In order to conduct the initial discussion, a connection was sought between these concepts and other unorthodox approaches, such as the idea of ​​rhizome and arborescence by Deleuze and Guattari (1995). To this end, the text presents some considerations on urban networks with Rochefort (1998) and Christaller (1933), followed by a conceptualization of rhizome and arborescence, a contrast between the forms, and the final considerations. The chosen approach was a literature review. Since this is an introductory text that aims to raise the debate on these possibilities, the literature chosen was quite limited, mainly due to the complexity of the theory involved. In its conclusion, it was understood that it is necessary to criticize the rigid form of theories involving the idea of ​​hierarchization of centers, seeking a way, in social diversity, to manifest itself in networks, leading them to a dynamic much closer to the conception of rhizome.