flaneurban

What makes a city thrive? Is it it’s location? Availability of Natural Resources? Human capital? Edward Glaeser at the New York Times Economix takes an interesting look at why. He speaks about vertical integration of cities with large industries leading to their downfall. In the end, some of the conclusions go back to Jane Jacobs, and mixing things up, you don’t need a river, or natural resources—though they do help—you need ‘old knowledge’ and a bit of new innovation to make big strides. Those cities that have both, tend to end up being more vibrant cities in the end. Take a look at New York, London, or even Austin, Texas, as opposed to places like San Jose (Silicon Valley). Where would you rather spend some time?