Settlements of unsettled places. On the importance of unique locations for social theory

Theorizing takes place. But how do concrete places matter for these activities, and how do specific loci operandi of ambitious theoretical work come to be the way they are? In a three-case comparison of “Frankfurt,” “Bielefeld,” and “Vincennes,” this puzzle is examined. In each case, one can find a particular settlement of a unique spot that enables an unsettling of ambitious social theory. Comparing the three spots thus indicates a crucial enabling pattern of theorizing. It is by no means claimed that this is the only or a very significant enabling pattern. Rather, the argument should be understood as an invitation to further intensify research in this area. “Hanover” and “Starnberg” are mentioned as two obvious cases that are worth further research.