Cities in the 21st Century provides an overview of contemporary urban development. Written by more than thirty major academic specialists from different countries; it provides information on and analysis of the global network of cities; changes in urban form; environmental problems; the role of technologies and knowledge; socioeconomic developments; and finally; the challenge of urban governance. In the mid-20th century; architect and planner Josep Lluiacute;s Sert wondered if cities could survive; in the early 21st century; we see that cities have not only survived but have grown as never before. Cities today are engines of production and trade; forges of scientific and technological innovation; and crucibles of social change. Urbanization is a major driver of change in contemporary societies; it is a process that involves acute social inequalities and serious environmental problems; but also offers opportunities to move towards a future of greater prosperity; environmental sustainability; and social justice.With case studies on thirty cities in five continents and a selection of infographics illustrating these dynamic cities; this edited volume is an essential resource for planners and students of urbanization and urban change.
#1459391 in eBooks 2014-02-10 2014-02-10File Name: B01BY3ACYU
Review
0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy ElizaHelpful discussion of a subject not often addressed.1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A Landmark BookBy RECThis book by Elkins has become a pivotal text in the academic study of religion and art. Upon publication; the work has been read widely and initiated such energetic discussion and debate that an international seminar was held in 2007 (see: Re-Enchantment) to explore more deeply these problems. No student; scholar; or interested lay person concerned about the relationship between religion and art today should go without reading this important work.Start here; then look into the work of David Morgan (Duke professor of Religion) and Sally Promey (Yale professor of religion). Youll be glad you did.15 of 20 people found the following review helpful. Recommended for art critics and art history studentsBy Midwest Book ReviewJames Elkins (Professor of Art History and Theory at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago); presents On The Strange Place Of Religion In Contemporary Art; an in-depth exploration of the complex dilemma of the modern artist concerning to what extent his art should reflect his faith. Even as art historians separate art from spirituality; the long history of art has been intertwined since long; long before the Renaissance. On The Strange Place Of Religion In Contemporary Art explores the dichotomy through the stories of five individuals; and turns over key terms and ideas scholars express when analyzing religious themes and motifs found in the art world. Highly recommended reading especially for art critics and art history students; seeking to better understand both their knowledge base and their descriptive vocabulary of the great works they view.
