The acclaimed and provocative architectural historian Joseph Rykwert explores the history of the city and calls for the return of a human agenda to city planning. Focusing on a range of urban environments around the world–from 19th-century London and Paris, to contemporary New Delhi, New York, and Celebration, Florida–Rykwert discusses the evolution of ideas about urban planning and where and why they have succeeded or failed. He investigates public spaces, architectural styles and schools, the role of city planners and developers, and how they affect our experience of cities. With wit, elegance and an uncommon range of references, Rykwert makes an inspiring case for lively and imaginative urban projects that meet all the needs of city dwellers, even as they seduce us with their sense of place.