City as a Growth Machine (by Harvey Molotch)

Harvey Molotch's concept of the "City as a Growth Machine" suggests that cities primarily function as engines for economic growth. Local elites, such as business leaders and politicians, collaborate to promote development that boosts property values and attracts investment. This focus on growth often prioritizes economic interests over social needs, leading to tensions over land use, housing, and community welfare. Essentially, the city operates as a platform where diverse interests compete for resources while striving to enhance the overall marketability and economic vitality of the urban space.