An Introduction to the Various Interpretations Explanation of "Unity" Concept in Urban Design

Due to its various meaning, the concept of “unity” is used with different aspects within urban design so-called vocabulary. Despite this extent of use, this concept and its multiple and various aspects is not studied properly. On the other hand, most of existing studies about “unity” are undertaken by western approaches while it seems that this concept should be interpretate from devine revelation. According to these statements, this study gives a typology of definitions proposed by experts about “unity” and the way they applied it to urban design. The recognition between these diverse approaches relation is made through descriptive-analytical methods. Finally, after exploring the Quran's attitude toward unity (according to the Tadabbor method), it is compared with other definitions and approaches. According to Quran’s attitude, perfect unity could be reached just by the accordance and compatibility of three systems, named: “active system of causes” (refer to active cause in philosophy), “inner system of causes” and “ultimate system of causes”. Other approaches to unity which are classified into nine types, usually focus on just one or two of these systems. This shows the lack of comprehensiveness of “unity” concept and the importance of the three condition of unity system throughout urban design.