ABSTRACT
There have been some advances in recent times, however. Scholars such as Robert Putnam have focused on the social functions of neighborhoods, communities, and cities, while others, like Edward Glaesar and Terry Clark, have turned their attention toward human capital, consumption, and cities as lifestyle and entertainment districts. Only by moving forward from these new perspectives can we gain a better understanding of contemporary cities and communities. The intent of the overview of recent directions in urban studies that follows is just thisto spur wider commentary and debate on the critical functions of cities and regions in 21st century creative capitalism.
