Architecture of the French Enlightenment - Allan Braham - Paperback Book

This book is an attempt to uncloak networks of power via focusing on sites that may appear to be situated at the fringes. Yet the overwhelming amounts of data on each site limit the depth of the book, and therefore its value is derived of its curatorial capacities more than anything else. At times Easterling's preferred method of analysis results in unsubstantiated redundancy, where the reader is bogged up in phrases that do not necessarily correspond to useful analytical tools. The reader is exposed to many quotes that remain unexamined, and thus the quotes are to create a frame that the reader will be encouraged to read through.

Even though I would have enjoyed more in-depth discussions of the significant matters at hand, I should admit that the author's emphasis on how architecture is part and parcel of the networks of power that are disclosed in the book should be praised. I especially enjoyed the chapter entitled 'Park,' though I am not sure why this chapter should deserve this title. Also, the part on high-rise demolitions, where she discusses Controlled Demolition Inc., is very interesting.