Meaning: Thom Mayne, a renowned American architect, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of architecture in society with his statement, "I'm often called an old-fashioned modernist. But the modernists had the absurd idea that architecture could heal the world. That's impossible. And today nobody expects architects to have these grand visions any more." This quote encapsulates the evolving expectations and perceptions of architects and their impact on the world.

Mayne's characterization of himself as an "old-fashioned modernist" suggests a certain adherence to the principles and ideals of the modernist architectural movement, which emerged in the early 20th century and emphasized functionality, simplicity, and a rejection of ornamentation. However, he also challenges the idealism of the modernist movement, particularly its belief in the transformative power of architecture to heal societal ills. This critical assessment reflects a shift in perspective from the lofty aspirations of the past to a more pragmatic understanding of the role of architecture in contemporary society.

The assertion that "the modernists had the absurd idea that architecture could heal the world" underscores Mayne's skepticism about the overreach of architectural ambition. The modernist architects, such as Le Corbusier and Walter Gropius, often espoused utopian visions of architecture as a catalyst for social change and improvement. They believed that through innovative design and urban planning, they could address the pressing issues of their time, from housing shortages to social inequality. Mayne's dismissal of this notion as "absurd" suggests a disillusionment with the idealistic promises of architecture and a recognition of its limitations in effecting broad societal change.

Mayne's assertion that "that's impossible" reflects a pragmatic acknowledgement of the complexities and multifaceted nature of societal challenges. While architecture undoubtedly has the potential to influence and shape human experiences, it cannot single-handedly solve deeply entrenched social, economic, and political issues. This acknowledgment of the inherent limitations of architecture aligns with a growing awareness of the need for interdisciplinary approaches and collaborative efforts to address complex societal problems.

Moreover, Mayne's observation that "today nobody expects architects to have these grand visions any more" reflects a shift in societal expectations of architects. In the past, architects were often revered as visionaries and were tasked with envisioning and implementing large-scale urban projects and public infrastructure. However, as the dynamics of urban development, environmental sustainability, and social equity have become increasingly complex, the burden of addressing these challenges has shifted to a broader coalition of stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and environmental experts.

In conclusion, Thom Mayne's quote encapsulates a nuanced perspective on the role of architecture in contemporary society. It reflects a departure from the idealistic ambitions of the modernist era and a recognition of the evolving societal expectations placed on architects. While the quote may appear to convey a sense of skepticism, it also opens up a dialogue about the realistic potential of architecture to contribute to positive social change within the context of broader interdisciplinary collaboration and societal challenges.