The English word “theory” derives from the ancient Greek verb “theorein”, which means “seeing” or “observing”. The focus of architectural theory is thus the observation and interpretation of architecture and all its aspects. As is generally the case in cultural theory, the theory of architecture does not just address one selected or canonized segment of the built environment but rather general spatial practices. It does not seek to escape to hypnotic metaphysics or complex cosmologies which, taken together, can lead to catechism, to recipes for buildings. Rather, it tries to grasp the real forces shaping the environment, even in its mediocre manifestations.