Question

Urban Economics/Sociology: Eds, Meds and Urban Revival

1. How is the economy of big cities like Birmingham and Philadelphia quite different today than a half century ago?

2. Why have cities turned their attention to "Eds and Meds"? How does the growth of Eds and Meds represent a shift in city economic development strategies, from the "smokestack" chasing of old to more contemporary "smart cities" policies?

3. Are all cities capable of attracting Eds and Meds?

Answer 1

1. Half a centuary ago, industrial revolution took place. Developed countries were mainly concerned with iron industries because they needed more and more iron for arms and ships manufacturing. It was a time of mass production.

Railways lines were spreaded to far away lands to make an easy reach. Increasing connectivity with heavy arms were a medium to show empowerment.

Today scenario is different. Present world is acedamically advanced and main focus remains on research and developement. Countries try to find alternatives for meeting their future needs.

Sustainable developement is main goal of most of the countries. Same trend can be seen in major cities of world like Birmingham and Philadelphia.

Today people are more engaged in university and college work. Education sector has been developed as a major way to earn and learn. Univeraity of Birmingham provides job to a major portion of city's population.

2. "Eds and meds" are true engine of a society. They are big source of income and jobs. Educational institutions are a major employer in cities. Hospitals and other educational istitutions are a big source of emoloyement.

They have replaced various industries in terms of employee and money generation.

They don't pollute environment and also provide better amenities to humans. These institutions are marker of developed society.

Cities with all basic facilities are now approaching for increasing number of such institutions in order to get the status of smart cities with aim of ensuring sustainable culture, economy and environment.

3. No, all cities are not capable of attracting Eds and Meds. This attraction mainly depends upon social security and welfare schemes of government. Road and rail connectivities are also an important aspects in this direction.

Political stable states are considered as favourite place for establishing such instititution. Disturbed, backward, remote and anarchial cities are not capable to attract Eds and Meds.