The term polar inertia was coined by critic paul virilio to describe the shrinking of distance and time by technology, leading towards a condition where technology has reduced the distance of space (through communiction and transporation technologies) to such a point as to dispense with he need to ever leave, everywhere becomes rigourously equivalent.

It is within this context that Polar Inertia journal seeks examine the contemporary city. We are interested in exposing the effects of techology, and to examine its effect on our surroundings and our perception of the city. Hidden in the fabric of the city are the informal networks that sustain it. The research in the journal provides a basis from which to explore the potential for alternative proposals for urban development informed from the daily realities of the city.