http://www.loc.gov/mods/v3 http://www.loc.gov/standards/mods/v3/mods-3-2.xsd
vii, 114 leaves : illustrations, map ; 28 cm.
Growth machine theory (Molotch 1976; Logan and Molotch 1987) represents a significant contribution to the study of urban development. It is hypothesized however, that the theory can be expanded, making it more applicable to modern urban settings. Growth machine theory assumes growth is controlled by an elite group of land-based interests, whose manipulation of land serves to increase the property values of land holders in the growth coalition. The "land-based rentier elite" works to create a "growth consensus" among a wide array of local business interests and politicians who benefit from the proceeds of urban growth. Logan and Molotch also acknowledge the negative impacts of growth, citing those communities that are unable to effectively combat unrestrained development. The ensuing conflicts typically result in the growth machine's domination of growth politics, and potentially, the rise of a powerful anti-growth coalition. It is hypothesized in this thesis that the conflicting valuation of land inherent in growth machine theory, does not necessarily result in a dialectic, win-lose situation. Furthermore, it is argued that the growth coalition may not always ado t a unidimensional roach to development where further growth and the capturing of additional profits is the only force behind the growth machine's actions. The historical development of Clear Lake City, Texas and the analysis of a major land developer (Friendswood Development Company) responsible for the city's growth will serve as a model to test three hypotheses, including two which are not addressed by growth machine theory. The three hypotheses to be tested include: 1) Friendswood Development Company does exemplify the basic dimensions found in growth machine theory concerning the characteristics of a "land-based rentier elite" which is the force initiating and perpetuating growth; 2) Land-based elites will take actions that are not directly associated with the construction of projects in order to deal with the concerns of potential anti-growth groups prior to the development of formalized opposition; and 3) Land-based elites will over time voluntarily develop multiple goals that reduce their pursuit of a single set of profit-oriented goals.