The DNA of Cities
Do cities have DNA?
Nov 23, 2022
This discussion features a star-studded panel including Prof Edgar Pieterse, an urban planning expert; Prof Mike Batty, a complex systems guru; Dr Jaana Remes, an economist focused on urban growth; Dr Karissa Sanbomatsu, who bridges genetics and urban identity; Abha Joshi Ghani, a finance specialist; and Prof Ricky Burdett, an urban design scholar. They explore whether cities have a 'DNA,' dissecting urban evolution and identity influenced by historical context. The captivating conversation also draws parallels between genetic adaptability and cities responding to their social environments.
40:44
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Quick takeaways
- Cities possess unique traits akin to biological DNA, evolving over time due to historical influences and environmental factors.
- The metaphor of urban DNA illustrates the interplay between inherited characteristics and adaptive responses, shaping distinct urban identities.
Deep dives
The Concept of Urban DNA
The metaphor of a city having DNA serves to illustrate its unique traits and characteristics, which can evolve over time. This concept suggests that cities have inherited qualities that influence their identity and development, akin to biological DNA. It raises questions about whether the DNA of a city can be damaged or lost and how such changes impact its evolution. The conversation around urban DNA also highlights the importance of a city's past and the scars of history that shape its present identity.
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