Amazon’s HQ2 Spectacle Isn’t Just Shameful—It Should Be Illegal

Amazon’s HQ2 Spectacle Isn’t Just Shameful—It Should Be Illegal

12/6/2018

link

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2018/11/amazons-hq2-spectacle-should-be-illegal/575539/

summary

In this thought-provoking article, the author argues that the competition among cities to attract Amazon's second headquarters, known as HQ2, is a problematic and exploitative spectacle. The article criticizes the lavish incentives and tax breaks offered by cities, which often prioritizes the interests of corporations over those of the community. It suggests that the bidding process for HQ2 creates a race to the bottom, where cities are willing to compromise their own resources and values to win the favor of Amazon. The author ultimately calls for regulations and legislation to prevent this type of spectacle, emphasizing the need for more equitable and transparent economic development strategies.

tags

amazon ꞏ corporate power ꞏ corporate influence ꞏ urban development ꞏ economic development ꞏ city planning ꞏ gentrification ꞏ public subsidies ꞏ tax incentives ꞏ corporate welfare ꞏ job creation ꞏ economic impact ꞏ community impact ꞏ local economy ꞏ real estate ꞏ housing ꞏ infrastructure ꞏ transportation ꞏ public services ꞏ government policy ꞏ political economy ꞏ monopolies ꞏ competition ꞏ economic inequality ꞏ income inequality ꞏ social justice ꞏ economic justice ꞏ corporate responsibility ꞏ public accountability ꞏ urbanism ꞏ urban economics ꞏ urban politics ꞏ city governance ꞏ public-private partnerships