![]() Not only do they detail subsurface physical structures that previously were invisible to us (LIDAR), and how humans transformed natural spaces into habitats (anthropogenic geomorphology), but also something of the kind and quality of daily life (data archaeology), along with forensic and other forms of anthropological interpretation. Despite the hyperbole in her subtitle, the “secret” she reveals in each city as thematic focus comes from the new research techniques used. ![]() ![]() And that is what Annalee Newitz has done in four cities with an additional aim: to personalize the life of urban groups and the people in them as much as she can without verging into tricky conjecture. In this context, it is well to look back on the history of ancient cities informed by new research techniques in archaeology and anthropology and track the social evolution that made those cities happen and fall. What Delhi, Seoul, Tokyo, London, Mexico City, New York and so many others will be like by the last third of the century, and how they will support their populations, is something to consider if with caution. ![]() Can anyone doubt that this growth will continue, at least for the next few decades? As cities expand, they also morph to suit pressing needs, however various they are. Cities, that is to say areas served by urban infrastructure, are now habitats for the majority of the world’s people, nearly two-thirds. ![]()
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