The neighborhood is a human universal. Indeed, we are far from the only species that has them. I love this investigation into what has happened to our neighborhoods in the modern era and how we can re-strengthen them. From the article:
…As Emily Talen reminds us, “neighborhoods are a ubiquitous condition of human settlement, found in all time periods, in all cultures, and in both rural and urban contexts. Even ancient cities have been described as clusters of neighborhoods.” Whether urban, suburban, or rural, neighborhoods have, since time immemorial, anchored our relationships, and provided the sense of security, belonging, and meaning that everyone needs to thrive.
Since World War II, however, urban planning has completely reshaped the physical landscape in which we live…