Books That Inspire 2002
 
Urban Fortunes: The Political Economy of Place
John R. Logan and Harvey L. Molotch


This is a must-read for anyone who is concerned with the growth and development of urban areas and those interested in the ongoing physical, social and economic changes within American communities. Using rich historical analysis, the authors show how local political and business elites are able to effectively influence local government policy and the local media to promote urban economic development - development where the benefits are captured by a few, but the costs of urban growth are incurred by the many. The "city as a growth machine" concept has become the most important development in urban affairs over the previous twenty years, and the text acts as a thought-provoking inspiration for all those interested in the management and change of cities in the United States.
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Charles Warnken
Visiting Assistant Professor
Architecture