TED: How Syria's architecture laid the foundation for brutal war | Marwa Al-Sabouni

The speaker, an architect from Homs, Syria, discusses the impact of war on her city and the role of architecture in social cohesion. She highlights how modernization and urban planning have contributed to sectarian divisions and proposes a vision for rebuilding that fosters community belonging. The talk emphasizes the importance of architecture in shaping social identity and the need for inclusive urban design to prevent future conflicts.

What was the main occupation of the speaker and their husband before the war?

• Owning a printing house

• Running a bookshop

• Operating a sweetshop

• Managing an architecture studio

According to the speaker, what is a key overlooked reason for the Syrian war?

• Political corruption

• Architecture

• Economic instability

• Social media influence

How did traditional Syrian architecture contribute to societal unity?

• By promoting modernity

• By intertwining different traditions

• By isolating religious groups

• By separating communities

What was one of the effects of colonial urban planning in Syria?

• Strengthening community ties

• Preserving ancient architecture

• Creating divisive urban zones

• Improving infrastructure

What percentage of the Syrian population lived in informal housing before the war?

• 50%

• 30%

• 20%

• 40%

What is the speaker's main focus for rebuilding Syrian cities?

• Expanding industrial areas

• Building more skyscrapers

• Fostering a sense of belonging

• Creating luxurious housing

What does the speaker suggest is important for architecture to promote?

• Exclusivity

• Isolation

• Modern aesthetics

• Generosity and acceptance

What was the speaker's design proposal for Baba Amr inspired by?

• A modern cityscape

• A traditional market

• A historical monument

• A tree

What does the speaker identify as a cause of community alienation in the Middle East?

• Traditional urbanism

• Contemporary urban archetypes

• Economic prosperity

• Religious diversity

What does the speaker believe cities should provide to their inhabitants?

• A sense of hierarchy

• A sense of isolation

• A sense of belonging

• A sense of competition