From “Capital Space” to “People’s Space”: Theoretical Reconstruction and the New Civilization Paradigm in Modern People-Centered Cities

Abstract

China’s urbanization is moving towards a new stage of intensive development focusing on improving the quality and efficiency of existing urban stocks. This article systematically explains the evolutionary logic and theoretical connotations of “modern people-centered cities” based on the Marxist theory of urban-rural relations and traditional Chinese city-building wisdom. This concept aims to transcend urban alienation dominated by capital logic and establish the ontological status of “the people”. The study constructs a four-dimensional theoretical framework covering value ontology, development dynamics, functional systems theory and evaluation epistemology, and proposes four practical pathways: returning spatial justice, transitioning development momentum for intensive growth, reshaping functional systems, and enhancing governance efficiency. Ultimately, this research aims to offer Chinese insights into global urban governance.