Why read Cities and the Wealth of Nations?

Book cover of Cities and the Wealth of Nations: Principles of Economic Life

Book description

In this eye-opening work of economic theory, Jane Jacobs argues that it is cities—not nations—that are the drivers of wealth. Challenging centuries of economic orthodoxy, in Cities and the Wealth of Nations the beloved author contends that healthy cities are constantly evolving to replace imported goods with locally-produced alternatives, spurring…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Cities and the Wealth of Nations as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Charles L. Marohn Jr.

Author

I was introduced to Jane Jacobs as required reading during graduate school. I’m convinced that most urban planners who claim to adore Jacobs have not actually read her, particularly Cities and the Wealth of Nations, which is my favorite. Its thoroughly brutal logic stands in contrast to nearly everything we still do to manage our cities. Jacobs is an insightful genius.

From Charles' list on The best books for thinking like a Strong Towns advocate.