One strategy, many purposes. A classification for cultural mapping projects

The chapter frames cultural mapping within the general discourse on methodology of social research, with some specific reference to the action research paradigm. The authors build a classification of cultural mapping projects based on a theoretical framework, showing how cultural mapping projects can be placed in a three-dimensional space of attributes defined by three continua: knowledge vs. identity; inside vs. outside; past vs. future. The chapter then proceeds with an empirical section describing four case studies of cultural mapping projects that were part of the participatory strategies coordinated by the authors within the context of large planning and cultural programs at various scales. The case studies demonstrate an application of the theoretical framework and delve into various cultural mapping tools that encourage an active involvement of local communities.