Triumph of the City

Triumph of the city: How Our Greatest Invention Makes Us Richer, Smarter, Greener, Healthier, and Happier is a non-fiction book by Edward Glaeser, an American economist and the current Fred and Eleanor Glimp Professor of Economics at Harvard University.

First published in 2011 by the Penguin Press, the book examines the important role cities play in human progress and prosperity.

Overview
Triumph of the City is an exploration of the power and significance of cities as engines of innovation, creativity, and wealth creation. Glaeser argues that cities, despite their challenges, are the healthiest, greenest, and culturally and economically richest places to live. He advocates for policies that encourage density and discourage sprawl for the benefit of the environment and the economy.

The book addresses a variety of topics related to urban life, including economic disparity, public health, environmental impact, and architectural preservation. Glaeser uses examples from around the globe to illustrate his points, drawing upon history, economics, and sociology.

Reception
Triumph of the City was widely praised for its comprehensive and insightful analysis of urban life. Critics appreciated Glaeser's clear and accessible writing style, as well as his use of data and examples to support his claims. The book received positive reviews from publications such as The New York Times, The Economist, and The Wall Street Journal.

Influence and legacy
Triumph of the City has become a seminal text in the field of urban economics and urban planning, influencing policy makers, city planners, economists, and social scientists worldwide. It is credited for bringing attention to the economic and environmental benefits of urban living and has inspired a reevaluation of policies that favor sub-urban sprawl over urban density.

The book continues to be used as a resource in urban economics and urban studies programs and is frequently cited in discussions about city planning and urban policy.