ABSTRACT
Capital cities play a crucial role in shaping the identity of a nation. As the seat of power and decision-making, capital cities represent the nation not only through their symbolic architecture, but also through the presence of important political and economic institutions. Capitals differ from other cities: the capital function secures strong and lasting centrality; it calls for a special hosting environment to provide what is required for the safe and efficient performance of the functions of government and decision-making characteristics of the place. This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book has an interdisciplinary focus, it intends to stimulate research in the fields of geography, political science, and urban studies. Policymakers and planning practitioners will find the insights instructive because the book formulates specific recommendations on how best to foster RIS and show how firms, policymakers and decision-makers can engage with the capital city economy.
