In 1854, urban living was a relatively new concept with less than 10% of the world living in cities. To many it seemed like a horrible idea. Crowding so many people into such a small space seemed like a disaster just waiting to happen and it was, in a sense. When the cholera epidemic hit London, the close proximity of urban dwellers made it easy for the bacteria to multiply at such a rapid rate, resulting in the deaths of so many. However, the fact that it was so devastating and so concentrated in one area enabled Snow and Whitehead to follow its course and figure out the source of the problem.
Today, less than 200 years later, more than half of the world’s population prefers city living. It is obviously a successful concept. We have efficient sewage systems and plenty of health measures in place to protect against such devastating outbreaks. Advantages to living in the city include people being able to share ideas and easier dispersing of electricity, fuel, food and other necessary resources. Humans are creative and resilient creatures and whenever problems arise we find ways to deal with them. Living in cities means sharing many of the same problems and concerns, and we work together to solve them as quickly and efficiently as possible. Additionally, John Snow’s concept of a map that tracks people’s lifestyles is something we have adapted to the internet and is further beneficial in helping us share ideas and thoughts.
Renee Esses
