Activity Quote by Lewis Mumford
“When cities were first founded, an old Egyptian scribe tells us, the mission of the founder was to 'put gods in their shrines.' The task of the coming city is not essentially different: its mission is to put the highest concerns of man at the center of all his activities.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The City in History, 1961
Early city founders placed gods at the center; modern cities should place humanity’s highest concerns at the core of all activities.
In simple terms: Cities should prioritize human values.
Key Takeaway
Design urban life around humanity’s greatest needs.
Themes
urban planning
values
humanism
civic purpose
Mood
reflective
visionary
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- municipal policy
- community projects
- public spaces
- education initiatives
Key Concepts
public good
ethical design
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the highest concerns that should guide city planning?
- How can citizens influence urban priorities?
A Different Perspective
Economic growth often dominates, sidelining higher concerns.
