Space Matters, But How?

As virtual organizing becomes more common and the boundaries between face-to-face and online interactions blur, developing a conceptualization of virtual space is crucial. This chapter discusses perspectives on space developed by philosophers, geographers, and sociologists to understand how they frame our understanding of virtual space. The chapter argues that, despite the geometrical definition of space as an extension or surface frequently found in the literature, virtual space is deeply material and continuously constructed through practices. The chapter illustrates the construction of virtual space with an interactive multimedia installation. The chapter builds upon Malpas's concept of place to suggest a definition of virtual space that recognizes its material and social dimensions as well as the multiplicity of practices and narratives involved in its enactment.