Carson Applies Occam's Razor To Sprawl

Richard Carson takes issue with the overlapping visions of the new urbanists and the environmentalists.

1 minute read

February 4, 2004, 5:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"In the post-war years of the late 1940s the buzzword was the 'fringe land.' In 1970s it was called 'leap frog' development. In the 1990s it is became 'sprawl.' But is there a common thread to our cultural and personal ambitions as Americans, and to our future?... I decided to use a philosophical method, called 'Occam's razor.'... The very same special interest groups who have vilified the 200-year American experience of 'sprawl' have just institutionalized it in the name of best available science and saving the planet for salmon."

Thanks to ArchNewsNow

Tuesday, February 3, 2004 in Planum: European Journal Of Planning

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog