Place and Prosperity: How Cities Help Us to Connect and Innovate

William Fulton's book "Place and Prosperity" explores how cities are created to further a political or economic agenda and how they are engines of prosperity. He argues that successful places create enduring economic assets and lay the groundwork for future prosperity, but for urbanism to succeed, all of us have to participate in making cities great places for everybody. Cities are resilient and can inspire and uplift us, making our daily life more convenient, fulfilling, and prosperous.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Island Press

Few questions hold more profound significance than "Where are you from" or "Where do you live?" These inquiries evoke a deep sense of connection, not only to cities as physical spaces but also to the individuals who share that connection. It is essential to understand that places are not mere accidents of existence; rather, they are meticulously crafted to serve specific political or economic agendas. The creation of better cities hinges on the broader vision and conscious efforts of the people who shape them.

In his book "Place and Prosperity: How Cities Help Us to Connect and Innovate," urban planning expert William Fulton delves into the intricate process by which decisions about places are made. He explores how cities function as engines of prosperity and how place and prosperity are intricately intertwined. With over four decades of experience in journalism, academia, politics, planning, and directing an urban think tank in one of America's great cities, Fulton brings a wealth of insights to his writings.

"Place and Prosperity" is a curated collection of Fulton's writings, featuring new and updated selections along with framing material. While the essays in the book may reflect Fulton's personal experiences and perspectives, their primary objective is to demonstrate how place and prosperity form the very essence of what a city is and, by extension, what our society is all about. Fulton elucidates how successful places generate enduring economic assets that withstand the test of time, laying the foundation for future prosperity. However, for urbanism to thrive, it is incumbent upon all of us to actively participate in making cities great places for everyone.

Cities, despite their imposing physical environments, cannot function without the active participation of their inhabitants. Cities are resilient entities that evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. They are hubs of creativity, innovation, and social interaction, fostering opportunities for personal and collective growth. By recognizing the significance of place and prosperity, we can work together to create cities that are inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous for generations to come.

In conclusion, "Where are you from" and "Where do you live?" are powerful questions that evoke a deep sense of connection and belonging. Understanding the role that cities play in shaping our lives and societies is crucial for creating better places for everyone. By embracing a broader vision and actively participating in the creation of cities, we can contribute to the growth and prosperity of our communities and the world at large.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642832501