In a series of essays, the process of urbanisation – a human mega-trend acquiring unprecedented scale and speed as globalisation proceeds – is examined in the most diverse contexts and stages of development. Drawing on scientific references and identifying recurring themes like dispersion, privatisation and vitality, Fiedler devises the glossary for a cross-cultural understanding of the global urban system emerging. Images and anecdotal evidence reconnect these themes to local realities. The tone of the essays conveys a post-voluntarist attitude, derived from many years of professional experience – critical of both neoliberal practices and determinist ideas.
To “condemn the reality” of global urbanization “is fruitless”, writes Johannes Fiedler in this unlimited view of a world of constant motion, subject no longer to just its planetary rotations, but also to the constant push and pull of its various populations, some of whose giant constructionsshift the earth’s axis.
From the foreword by Lars Lerup
An effective insight is given into the workings of urbanisation without requiring scientific background
Unique cases embedded in broader analytical reasoning
The book appeals to architects interested in urban development
Johannes Fiedler
Consumer-driven Development Globalisation Post-voluntarism Urbanisation landscape/regional and urban planning urban geography and urbanism