Unequal Cities - Overcoming Anti-Urban Bias to Reduce Inequality in The USA

Richard McGahey explores how cities can foster equitable economic growth despite the obstacles in their way. Drawing on extensive experience as well as historical analysis, he examines the failures of public policy and conventional economic wisdom that have led to the neglect of American cities and highlights opportunities for reform. Unequal Cities features detailed case studies of New York, Detroit, and Los Angeles, tracing how their attempts to achieve greater equity foundered because of the fiscal and political constraints imposed on them. McGahey identifies key lessons about the political coalitions that can overcome anti-urban biases, arguing that alliances among unions, environmentalists, and communities of color can help cities thrive. However, he cautions, cities cannot solve inequality on their own: political action at state and federal levels is necessary to achieve systemic change.