Using BERTopic modelling to map the evolution of space syntax research

Abdelbaseer A. Mohamed

Land Use Policy, 2025, vol. 157, issue C

Abstract: The complexity of spatial planning and the increasing emphasis on sustainable, equitable, and efficient land use have intensified the demand for urban theories and methodologies that can comprehensively analyse spatial layouts. Space syntax has emerged as a powerful set of theories and techniques for examining the spatial characteristics of urban form and its influence on human movement, accessibility, social interactions, and land use patterns. To trace evolutionary trajectories, application patterns, and existing knowledge gaps, this review applied the BERTopic modelling technique to a dataset of 5221 documents spanning from 1976 to 2024. findings reveal a general upward trajectory in space syntax research, marked by fluctuations coinciding with key events. Dominant research themes have focused on socio-spatial segregation, wayfinding, urban safety, and land use planning. Recently, emerging or declining themes included studies on tourism-related businesses and urban resilience. Notably, gaps remain in areas related to risk assessments, urban climate and energy efficiency, information modelling, place attachment, urban planning practices, green infrastructure, and large-scale spatial systems. Based on these insights, we propose a research agenda aimed at addressing these gaps and informing future studies.

Keywords: Space syntax; Urban analytics; Systematic review; Topic modelling; Temporal evolution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:lauspo:v:157:y:2025:i:c:s0264837725001735

DOI: 10.1016/j.landusepol.2025.107639

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