Cities are mankind's greatest creation. They represent the most eloquent expression of our species' ingenuity, beliefs and ideals. From Babylon and Rome to London, New York and Tokyo, Joel Kotkin examines the evolution of urban life over the millennia in order to establish what made - and makes - a city great. Despite their infinite variety, all cities essentially serve three purposes: spiritual, political and economic. Kotkin follows the progression of the city from the early religious centres of Mesopotamia, the Indus ...
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Cities are mankind's greatest creation. They represent the most eloquent expression of our species' ingenuity, beliefs and ideals. From Babylon and Rome to London, New York and Tokyo, Joel Kotkin examines the evolution of urban life over the millennia in order to establish what made - and makes - a city great. Despite their infinite variety, all cities essentially serve three purposes: spiritual, political and economic. Kotkin follows the progression of the city from the early religious centres of Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley and China, to the imperial centres of the Classical era, through the rise of the Islamic city and the European commercial capitals, ending with today's post-industrial suburban metropolis'. Today's cities face many problems, and they can only thrive if they remain sacred, safe and busy. This is as true for the developing world, where at least 600 million people now live in squatter cities' , as it is for the great global cities which face the challenges of shifting demographics, new technologies and the threat of terrorism.
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Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
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"The City" by Joel Kotkin was recommended by a friend who uses it as the base text for a college course he teaches. After getting a copy from the library I felt that it was the best book yet I have read on the evolution and meaning of the "City" siince earliest times. It contains details and histories plus personal insights that I find useful in my current work within cities.
During graduate studies in Architecture, I took several courses on Cities and City Planning, still have and use those texts from 30 years ago but feel that Kotkin's writting is the most accessible, useful and comprehensive that I have seen. "The City" has become a valuable addition to my library.