Part 3, Chapter 15, Unslumming and Slumming Summary and Analysis

The term "vicious circle" applies to slums. The slum areas are the perpetrators and victims of the problem. Moreover, slums tend to spread. Urban renewal projects try to stop slums but the attempts have mostly failed. Jacobs identifies conventional approaches to slums as being paternalistic. Viewing slum dwellers with a superior eye is condescending and does not allow for individual participation in revitalization. By respecting the people who live in the slums, acknowledgning their history in the area, and building on the inherent desire of those living in and patronizing the slums to better their area, revitalization can be accomplished. The problem with the slums is that people move in and out too quickly. Slums can be "unslummed", but not easily. The term "perpetual slum" designates a situation where there is no improvement...