UMA INTRODUÇÃO AO CONCEITO DE CIDADES INTELIGENTES:

EXPLORANDO A DIVERSIDADE POLISSÊMICA

Abstract

The concept of smart cities has evolved over time, adapting to the needs of various actors and processes. This flexibility, while enriching, leads to ambiguities that hinder the consolidation of a solid epistemological foundation and promote the creation of generic, out-of-context policies. This study, based on a bibliographic review, examines how different agents define and structure the concept of smart cities. Technology and innovation companies tend to associate the term with the implementation of technological solutions in urban environments, emphasizing automation and efficiency. On the other hand, authors and managers with a more humanistic approach argue that these technologies should be integrated within broader strategies focused on improving urban quality of life, social inclusion, and sustainability. The diversity of interpretations generated by these different viewpoints results in distorted classifications and the simplification of the multiple dimensions that characterize smart cities. As a result, many studies and policies focus only on specific indicators, neglecting fundamental aspects such as participatory governance, social well-being, and environmental sustainability. Thus, the article aims to contribute to a more integrated and critical understanding of the smart city concept.