In Search for (the Lost) Smartness in the Evolution of the Smart Cities: Consumers or Citizens?

Abstract

The paper develops a systematic reflection about the future of smart cites at the time of Covid-19, starting from an original periodization about the evolution of the concept of smartness, declined through a four fold analytical tool (technological, human-social, institutional and spatial-environmental dimensions). Focusing on the role of smart citizens and on the “right to the city” concept, we list and critically appraise the emerging trends made visible by the worldwide sanitary crisis.