Complex systems interplay: cities and institutions

Bernardo Alves Furtado

Chapter 14 in Handbook on Institutions and Complexity, 2025, pp 285-301 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter examines the relationship between cities and institutions, highlighting their interdependence and impact on each other. Cities are complex systems that exhibit self-organization and non-linear scaling properties, while institutions co-evolve with the built environment, shaping and being shaped by cities. The chapter emphasizes the role of institutions in reducing interaction costs and promoting the dissemination of public benefits. The chapter also points to scaling as a key factor to identify similarities and patterns in cities, whereas institutions are where they differ and thrive. Inequality – expressed mainly as neighborhood disparities – also seems to be relevant to boost cities’ adaptability and resilience. However, there are no easy solutions for addressing inequality or promoting cities’ improvements. Cities and their citizens must find ways to tackle these challenges in practice.

Keywords: Cities; Planning; Scaling; Neighborhoods; Policy; Agent-based models (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035309719
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