Cities are a reflection first of the ability of their institutions to measure and actualize public will, and second of the content of that will. The current pursuit by many cities of global status serves the priorities of political and business elites. However, these cities often fail to plan for social and economic adaptability in unforeseen circumstances.

http://thediplomat.com/2015/02/asian-cities-pay-hidden-price-for-global-status/

Hartley, Kris (2015). “Asian Cities Pay Hidden Price for Global Status.” The Diplomat, 14 Feb.

NUS news page:

http://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/news/asian-cities-pay-hidden-price-for-global-status/