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

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2018/11/amazons-hq2-spectacle-should-be-illegal/575539/
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Amazon’s HQ2 Spectacle Isn’t Just Shameful—It Should Be Illegal

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.

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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.

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