But how are present-day shrinking cities any different from historic ones? Since the first human settlements, epidemics, wars and natural catastrophes have decimated populations in cities or even entire regions. One could think of Rome, a city which has experienced periods of lengthy decline and rebirth or others, like Atlantis, that have disappeared altogether. Present-day shrinkage is different from historical examples because, unlike the latter, it has been taking place during times of peace and increasing affluence, as opposed to a violent external force. This new type of shrinkage occurs as a result of globalization and its reorganization of space and time, leaving old industrial centres behind in the competition for resources within the global cities’ network. For my research I have chosen Leipzig as a case study, since it represents a specific case whereby all the main factors of shrinkage overlap.
Tamas, Ioana
Faculty of Technology, Design and Environment
Year: 2017
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