As cities grow larger, they often require less infrastructure per person compared to smaller cities or towns. This statement suggests that as urban populations increase, there's a greater efficiency in how resources are distributed and utilized within these larger communities.
This insight touches on broader economic and social dynamics of urban development. Larger cities can benefit from economies of scale, allowing them to share costs more effectively across a larger population base. For instance, public transportation systems might serve many more people without significantly increasing per capita infrastructure spending. This principle extends beyond just physical infrastructure like roads or utilities; it also applies to institutions and services such as healthcare facilities, educational resources, and administrative offices. As cities expand, they can leverage their size to enhance these services' efficiency, reducing the need for additional infrastructure on a per-person basis.
Geoffrey West is an esteemed physicist and complexity scientist known for his work in understanding patterns of life within cities and other complex systems. His research often explores how principles of physics can be applied to understand biological and social phenomena, particularly in urban environments.
