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Cities Quote by Jane Jacobs

“[Cities] are not like suburbs, only denser. They differ from towns and suburbs in basic ways, and one of these is that cities are, by definition, full of strangers.” quote by Jane Jacobs
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“[Cities] are not like suburbs, only denser. They differ from towns and suburbs in basic ways, and one of these is that cities are, by definition, full of strangers.”

Jane Jacobs

About This Quote

Source Book: The Death and Life of Great American Cities by Jane Jacobs, 1961

Cities are dense, stranger-filled environments distinct from suburbs and towns, shaping social interactions and community dynamics.

In simple terms: Cities are crowded and full of strangers.

Key Takeaway

Understand urban social fabric.

Themes

urbanism community density strangers

Mood

analytical observational

Type

urban sociological

When to use this quote

  • city planning
  • neighborhood building
  • social networking
  • community events

Key Concepts

social ecology public space design

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does density affect community trust?
  • What role do strangers play in city life?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook the benefits of anonymity.

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