The David McWilliams Podcast In Praise of Cathedral Thinking
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Jan 31, 2023 Explore the concept of 'cathedral thinking' as a blueprint for building sustainable cities focused on future generations. Discover how historical figures like John Gray revolutionized urban planning in 19th-century Dublin amid public health crises. Learn about the contrast between long-term vision and short-term gains in housing policies. Delve into the intergenerational rights in urban planning, emphasizing the need for equitable solutions that benefit not just current residents but also those yet to come.
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Notre Dame and Cathedral Thinking
- David McWilliams discusses the construction of Notre Dame Cathedral, highlighting the "cathedral thinking" behind it.
- Builders worked knowing they wouldn't see its completion, demonstrating a long-term vision for future generations.
John Gray and Dublin's Water System
- McWilliams recounts the story of John Gray, a 19th-century Dublin surgeon who built the city's modern water system.
- Gray's foresight eliminated cholera and typhus, demonstrating the power of long-term planning.
Short-Term Thinking vs. Long-Term Planning
- Modern societies, driven by short-term thinking, struggle to address long-term challenges like housing and urban planning.
- We need "over-engineering" solutions, like Gray's water system, that anticipate future needs.
