Kent E. Calder Boeken

Exploring the resilience of urban areas, the book delves into how cities adapt more effectively to rapid changes compared to nations. It examines the unique characteristics of urban environments, such as diversity, innovation, and local governance, which enable them to respond swiftly to challenges. Through various examples and case studies, the author highlights the importance of community engagement and flexible infrastructures in fostering adaptability, ultimately suggesting that cities may offer valuable lessons for national policy and global issues.

The story of the creation of the metric system in 1792 traces the endeavors of Delambre and Méchain, the backlash of superstitious contemporaries, and the mistake that drove Méchain to the brink of madness.