On 11 January 2024, Dr. Vivien Butot successfully defended his PhD thesis, Imaginaries, Experiences and Controversies: Resituating Citizen Engagements in Smart and Safe Cities, at Erasmus University Rotterdam. His research focuses on how citizens interact with and respond to digital technologies and safety measures in smart cities, offering valuable insights into the often-invisible ways technology shapes urban life.
Citizen Engagement in Smart Cities
Through his research, Vivien sheds light on how digital technologies, though often invisible, have a profound impact on everyday urban life. In an interview with Erasmus Magazine, Vivien explained, “People don’t always see the digital technology around them, but it significantly affects their interactions with the city and with others.” His work emphasises the importance of citizen participation and transparency in the development of safe and smart urban environments.
Vivien’s thesis was supervised by Professor Liesbet van Zoonen, academic director of the Centre for BOLD Cities, alongside Professor Gabriele Jacobs and Professor Saskia Bayerl. Their guidance helped Vivien delve deeply into the nuanced relationships between citizens, safety, and urban technologies.y
A valued member of BOLD Cities
During his time as a PhD candidate, Vivien was an integral part of the Centre for BOLD Cities team. He contributed to several outreach initiatives, including but not limited to our datawalks, that engage citizens in understanding and questioning the role of urban data. His passion for fostering dialogue between citizens and technology mirrors the Centre’s mission of creating inclusive and transparent smart cities.
About Vivien
This academic year, Vivien began his role as Associate Lector Social Media, Security and Justice at Hogeschool Inholland Rotterdam, where he continues to explore the intersection of technology, security, and society. While his new position marks an exciting chapter, we are pleased to share that Vivien will remain connected to the Centre for BOLD Cities.
We are immensely proud of Vivien’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing how his expertise will continue to contribute to more inclusive cities.