Blight Theory

Blight Theory suggests that the decline of a city or community is often rooted in social and economic deterioration rather than just physical decay. It posits that when a neighborhood experiences neglect, disinvestment, or social issues, it leads to a cycle of decline—vacant buildings, reduced investment, and worsening conditions—that further discourages residents and businesses. This process can spread, making recovery challenging. Essentially, Blight Theory emphasizes that addressing underlying social and economic problems is crucial to halting or reversing urban decay, rather than focusing solely on physical improvements.