The re-emergence of Third Place

Follow the Rabbit is a (video) podcast that invites you into the messy, interconnected world of cultural research. Join Igor and Johannes in Season 1 as they use Toby Shorin's essay Life after Lifestyle to explore cultural rabbit holes, connect unexpected dots, and uncover insights that shape our world, all while working with the garage door open.

This episode of Follow the Rabbit explores the concept of “third places” and their recent resurgence. Key points include:

1. Introduction to the concept of “third places,” coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in 1989.
2. Definition of third places as locations separate from home (first place) and work (second place).
3. Examples of third places: libraries, places of worship, community centers, parks, bars, gyms, and even virtual settings.
4. Historical context: The concept was popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, even used in advertising (e.g., PlayStation 2's "the third place" slogan).
5. Characteristics of third places: low barrier to entry, bringing diverse people together, no need for appointments.
6. Decline of third places due to privatization of public spaces, rising costs, and increased time spent at home.
7. Recent resurgence of interest in third places
8. Connection to Toby Shorin's essay: unfulfilled spiritual longing previously addressed by brand culture, now shifting.
9. Anecdote about a recent event where the concept of third places resonated strongly with attendees.
10. Emergence of membership clubs and gyms as modern expressions of third places.

The episode highlights the renewed interest in physical spaces for community and connection, framing it within the context of current social and economic trends. It suggests that this concept will continue to evolve and manifest in various forms in urban environments.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/x6FxjhTdkpk