Average Rating: 4
This accessible and exceptionally interesting book analyses a range of contemporary cities urban geography and culture and, in contrast to many preconceptions of anarchist analysis, sees cities as having a central role to play in a sustainable and humane society. The scope of this relatively small book is impressive including essays on Thessaloniki, Istanbul, Montreal, Portland and Diyarbakir and there are certain key themes and arguments running through the text. The main point Hern appears to be making is that for cities to be truly sustainable they need to increase in density and diversity and be based on a direct, participatory democratic structure that encourages active citizens rather than passive consumers. This is particularly refreshing reading given that this reviewer lives near Milton Keynes town centre. If Hern wants to see a great example of a consumption oriented urban layout with private ownership of public space built to encourage car use and passive citizens, he really should come to the town centre here (though weirdly enough it also includes many green public spaces). It really is something special. The only problems with the book are that you might find yourself wanting more detail on the cities he describes, particularly specific areas and the diversity of culture within them. Vancouver, perhaps understandably, gets a significant amount of attention which links to the differences in style between American and European analysts in that he does not have a problem with the occasional use of first person analysis. Whilst many will be fine with this it does appear out of kilter with other aspects of the text and the themes of the book. Having said this it is still a really good read and a great analysis of the subject, highly recommended.
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