Cities in Search of Freedom: European Municipalities against the Leviathan

The nation-state has lost its political primacy due to devolution, Europeanization, and globalization, leading to enhanced municipal autonomy. This book explores the tensions between central states and European cities and the rise of cities as political actors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 150 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Over the past few decades, the nation-state has witnessed a significant decline in its political primacy, primarily due to the processes of devolution, Europeanization, and globalization. These developments have resulted in an increased level of municipal autonomy, giving cities greater power and influence within their respective regions. However, some cities have chosen to bypass the state and expand their sphere of action. In order to understand this phenomenon, this book combines political geography, local politics, and urban sociology to provide a fresh perspective on the weakening authority of the state and the simultaneous rise of cities as political actors.

The author delves into the complex dynamics between central states and European cities, offering a novel interpretation of the tensions that exist between these two entities. By examining the historical, economic, and social factors that have contributed to this shift, the author provides valuable insights for students and researchers in the social sciences.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the increasing competition between cities for resources, investment, and political influence. As globalization has facilitated the flow of capital and people across borders, cities have become major players in the global economy. They offer a range of advantages, such as access to talent, infrastructure, and a diverse customer base, which make them attractive destinations for businesses and investors.

However, this competition has also led to tensions between cities and central states. Central governments often seek to maintain control over their territories and limit the autonomy of cities, particularly in areas such as economic policy, infrastructure development, and social welfare. This can lead to conflicts between cities and central governments, as cities seek to assert their independence and pursue their own agendas.

Another theme explored in the book is the role of cities in promoting social and economic equality. As cities become increasingly diverse and interconnected, they are also becoming more aware of the social and economic disparities that exist within their communities. They are taking steps to address these issues, such as implementing policies that promote affordable housing, job creation, and access to education and healthcare.

However, the pursuit of social and economic equality can also lead to tensions between cities and central governments. Central governments may resist these policies, arguing that they interfere with their ability to maintain economic stability and control over their territories. This can lead to conflicts between cities and central governments, as cities seek to assert their autonomy and pursue their own agendas.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the study of urban politics and governance. By combining political geography, local politics, and urban sociology, the author offers a fresh perspective on the weakening authority of the state and the simultaneous rise of cities as political actors. The book explores the complex dynamics between central states and European cities, offering insights into the tensions that exist between these two entities and the ways in which cities are seeking to assert their independence and pursue their own agendas. The book will be of interest to students and researchers in the social sciences, as well as policymakers and practitioners working in the field of urban governance.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 161 x 242 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529216325