The political turmoil in the United States is frequently being described in terms of geography. Election maps paint a picture of of an urban/rural divide that has deep roots in racial segregation, de-industrialization, and drug abuse. The most cynical observer could envision the 48 states divided into three distinct countries consisting of a central heartland flanked by two coastal mega-cities. Such an outcome would require some creative map drawing--and a lot of barbed wire. To pursue such a fantasy would reveal that the weaknesses of the rural zones are even more significant than most people realize. Despite the results of the most recent national election, the balance of trade and power is heavily skewed towards coastal cities -whether they are near fresh waterways or oceans.
Towers of ilium, quite naturally, has a bias towards the cities. Commerce, consumption, congestion, drama, and innovation are the essential elements of the city. The conventional role of rural areas as places where natural resources are harvested points to a grim future where huge robots dig and till with tireless efficiency.
No comments:
Post a Comment