T h e U n i t e d S tat e s has the most prosperous economy in the world, but American cities are not equal. Our cities are very diverse in terms of income levels, amenities, business climate, quality of life, and many other factors. This book analyzes economic differences between US cities and asks the questions, "To what extent can government improve a local economy?" and "Should government step back and let free market forces grow the economy?" For centuries scholars like Adam Smith and John M. Keynes have argued about the place of government in capitalist economies. Their theories, and...