The Just City

"The Just City" by Susan S. Fainstein offers an in-depth analysis of urban development from the perspective of justice, democracy, and diversity. Fainstein contrasts the idea of the city as a growth machine with the concept of the just city, where social justice and the needs of disadvantaged communities take center stage. By examining New York, London, and Amsterdam, she highlights the challenges and opportunities that have arisen from neoliberal urban planning. The book provides a historical perspective on urban planning after World War II and discusses current developments aimed at combating growing inequalities in urban spaces. Fainstein's approach encourages urban planners and policymakers to pursue inclusive and equitable urban development that considers both social and economic aspects. The theoretical concepts of justice are applied to concrete issues to demonstrate that significant reforms are possible even at the local level.