If the City Were Ours: A Vision for a More Just and Sustainable Future

In her groundbreaking book, "If the City Were Ours," Joice Berth paints a vivid and inspiring vision of a more just and sustainable future for our cities. Drawing on her extensive experience as an urban planner and activist, Berth argues that we must fundamentally rethink the way we design and manage our cities if we want to create a more livable and equitable world.

A Critique of the Current Urban Model

Berth begins by critiquing the current urban model, which she argues is based on principles of exclusion, exploitation, and environmental destruction. She points out that our cities are increasingly divided between the wealthy and the poor, with the former living in gated communities and the latter relegated to slums and other marginalized areas. This inequality is reflected in the way our cities are designed, with wide boulevards and luxury shopping malls catering to the wealthy, while public transportation and other essential services are neglected.

Berth also argues that our current urban model is unsustainable, both environmentally and socially. The reliance on cars and fossil fuels is contributing to climate change and air pollution, while the increasing concentration of wealth in the hands of a few is leading to social unrest and political instability.

A Vision for a More Just and Sustainable City

Berth then presents her vision for a more just and sustainable city. She argues that we need to create cities that are designed for people, not for cars. This means creating walkable neighborhoods, with mixed-use development and public transportation that makes it easy for people to get around without a car. We also need to invest in affordable housing, so that everyone has a safe and decent place to live.

Berth also argues that we need to create cities that are more inclusive and participatory. This means giving residents a greater say in how their cities are designed and managed. We also need to create opportunities for people from all backgrounds to participate in the economic and political life of the city.

How to Make the City Ours

Berth concludes by offering a number of concrete proposals for how we can make the city ours. These proposals include:

• Investing in public transportation and affordable housing
• Creating walkable neighborhoods with mixed-use development
• Giving residents a greater say in how their cities are designed and managed
• Creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to participate in the economic and political life of the city

"If the City Were Ours" is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our cities. Berth's vision of a more just and sustainable city is both inspiring and achievable, and her book provides a roadmap for how we can make it a reality.

Why You Should Buy This Book

"If the City Were Ours" is a powerful and persuasive book that will change the way you think about cities. Berth's writing is clear, concise, and engaging, and she does an excellent job of weaving together personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and policy recommendations. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to create a more just and sustainable future for our cities.

Here are a few reasons why you should buy this book:

• It will change the way you think about cities.
• It is full of inspiring ideas and practical solutions.
• It is beautifully written and easy to read.
• It is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our cities.

Order Your Copy Today!

"If the City Were Ours" is available now in hardcover, paperback, and e-book. Order your copy today and start your journey to creating a more just and sustainable city.