This major research paper (MRP) argues how a simple process that is self-sustaining can create a more balanced, thoughtful and livable framework for cities.
How? By analyzing the history of cities, their challenges and the range of solutions proposed over time, we can uncover a set of simple rules that govern how individual cities work within their environmental and structural context. We can then use these rules to help communities create the spaces and places they want to live in. We can also see how breaking these rules can cause a cascade of solutions that invariably fail.
The rules are mechanisms which create an internally-consistent system. This MRP aims to integrate these rules into a coherent framework for the system.
We want to turn many little, individual transactions into a cohesive force that creates a livable, thriving city, without prescribing that people should act a certain way. We view humans realistically with all our flaws, not idealistically as perfectly rational beings. We view people as participants in their own vision of the city. By doing so, we achieve cities that are functional without having to wish them into being through top-down governance processes. With this approach, we enable cities that create themselves naturally, following simple patterns and relationships.
This MRP tests this system of rules using three methods from the strategic foresight and innovation toolkit; using 1) systemic leverage points, 2) foresight scenario building and 3) strategic windtunnelling. We make the case that these rules are both necessary and sufficient to enact paradigm-shifting change.
The first part of this MRP is gathering data from the past in the form of case studies, research, lived experience and statistics. The second part attempts to gather ‘data from the future’ in the form of scenarios, strategies and thought experiments. Together we will have an idea that balances reliability and validity.
The outcome of this MRP will be a business case to support further investment of resources to prototype these rules in a variety of applications for those who want to make a lasting impact on the next century of human progress.