Growth Machine Theory

The Growth Machine Theory is the idea that the city acts as a growth machine and can offer avenues for the wealthy to get wealthier. The idea that this is a detrimental theory needs to be known because big businesses and the wealthy are using it to their advantage.

To begin, the idea of the growth machine theory states “Urban growth machine is an influential thesis of urban politics that suggests the objective of growth unites otherwise pluralistic interests in relation to a city. The thesis is situated within a broader theory about the commodification of place, where place is understood to be socially and economically valued land.” (Publiclysited) This means that the use of land and other commodities can be used to increase value. I believe that this is a bad thing because it influences the spread of monopolies and can lead to the fast urbanization of cities, this can increase the cost of life and other essential needs.

Next, with growth machine theory typically the wealthy are the only ones that are enabled to grow their network. The wealthy can buy land and partake in the opening of commercial properties such as hotels, casinos, and malls. With this not only is their wealth increasing but they also have more control over the city. This is important to understand because it creates a wealth hierarchy and gives wealthier people more power in general.

To conclude, the growth machine theory is a negative part of society because it does not provide sufficient support for the growth of equality and society as a whole. The spread of wealth is always beneficial to the people but with the wealthy using it to gain more for themselves it does not seem fair to have them control commercial and bigger land options.