A Tale of Four Developing Cities

Abstract

This chapter aims to provide a better understanding on how leveraging relational capital triggers multiple possibilities for the construction of knowledge-based development initiatives in city-regions. This chapter therefore explores key aspects of knowledge-based networks and systems existing in four selected emerging cities and regions. Such aspects are part of a capital systems scope known as the Generic Capital System (GCS). Essentially, the GCS is a tool to benchmark how cities are leveraging their capacity for knowledge-based development. For the purposes of this chapter, some elements of GSC's are emphasized to observe the convergence of learning, economy and urban social network opportunities in four distinct city-regions as a strategy for development. A context-based model like GSC seemingly illustrates how knowledge-based initiatives are making a difference in cities of the developing world building a place and a unique identity in the global arena. In such intriguing context, drivers such as social capital through clustering, networks and other institutional capacities is advanced in this chapter. This perspective is expected to shed some light on how cities and communities can add value to their development strategies.