I have to disagree with Jackie’s last point about how people might have been simply following public opinion when it came to the Five Points without ever giving it a chance. While there may be some redeeming qualities to the Five Points, which Anbinder himself alludes to in his concluding paragraphs, the Five Points was not a pleasant place to live. I doubt that writers had the desire to fuel public misconceptions when the truth was far more interesting. The fact is, there were three intense riots in the area and fights, prostitution, and excessive drinking at all times. The Five Point’s history is a great example of that of a slum as described by Mumford. It didn’t need exaggeration.
I think in regards to reading Jane Jacobs’ The Death and Life of Great American Cities, Jackie was right to remind us that it we are now living 20 years after it was written. Because of this, it is hard to criticize her lack of evidence in certain areas, as Jackie has. Some things are common knowledge at certain times and need no explanation. Just because Morningside Heights is now a hangout for college students, doesn’t mean it always was. As pointed out by Jackie herself, things change. It is very likely this is another example of that.
