Governance networks: Conceptualization, genealogy, and research frontiers

Abstract

The benefits of governance networks in the field of urban governance are too often presumed rather than theoretically and empirically demonstrated. This chapter addresses this issue through a thorough conceptualization of networks. This is followed by a genealogy of the emergence and acceptance of networks in the domains of governance via their connections to various projects or trends within the cultural political economy. Lastly, research frontiers that position governance networks and their capacity to promote inclusive and sustainable cities as phenomena in need of explanation and critique are discussed.