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Cities and the Wealth of Nations

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What to expect

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 a cycle of vibrant economic growth. Intelligently argued and drawing on examples from around the world and across the ages, here Jacobs radically changes the way we view our cities—and our entire economy.

Critics Review

“Not only comprehensible but entertaining…Like Mrs. Jacobs’s other books, it offers a concrete approach to an abstract and elusive subject. That, all by itself, makes for an intoxicating experience.”

New York Times

“Not only comprehensible but entertaining…It offers a concrete approach to an abstract and elusive subject.”

New York Times

“Learned, iconoclastic, and exciting…Jacobs’s diagnosis of the decay of cities in an increasingly integrated world economy is on the mark.”

New York Times Book Review

“Learned, iconoclastic, and exciting.”

New York Times Book Review

“Jacobs’s book is inspired, idiosyncratic, and personal…It is written with verve and humor; for a work of embattled theory, it is wonderfully concrete, and its leaps are breathtaking.”

Los Angeles Times

“Jacobs’s book is inspired, idiosyncratic, and personal…Written with verve and humor.”

Los Angeles Times
Author Jane Jacobs
Narrator Bernadette Dunne
Duration 10 hours and 31 minutes
Release Date
ISBN 9798212033336
Format Audiobook
Publisher Blackstone Publishing
Genre Economic history, Macroeconomics, Urban communities
Availability US

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