City of Quartz

Excavating the Future in Los Angeles

Book • 2018

In *City of Quartz*, Mike Davis delves into the complex history of Los Angeles, exploring how the city has been influenced by various powerful groups, including real estate boosters, the Protestant elite, Jewish Westside elites, homeowner groups, and the Los Angeles Police Department.

The book critiques the city's development, highlighting issues of racial tension, economic inequality, and the transformation of Los Angeles into a 'fortress city' characterized by fear and surveillance.

Davis also examines the impact of market forces on urban design and the lives of different classes, concluding with a study of the de-industrialized town of Fontana, which he terms a 'junkyard of dreams'.

Mentioned by

Michael Shellenberger

Christopher Sandbatch

Mentioned in 9 episodes

Mentioned by

Michael Shellenberger

as a nihilistic book advocating the idea of letting Malibu burn.

220 snips

Tucker Carlson and Michael Shellenberger Break Down the California Fires

Mentioned by

Kmele Foster

while discussing the history of fire management in Malibu.

65 snips

#485 - The Fire This Time

Mentioned as an incredible book about the history of Los Angeles and talks about the kind of surveillance system that separates different classes in Los Angeles.