Theorizing Urban Form in Developing Countries: Informal Property Markets and the Production of the Built Environment
Abstract: Using the paradox of the relative stability of urban form and illegality of property rights held by many individuals as an analytical entry point, this paper uses tools of new institutional economic theory to develop a conceptual framework linking informal property markets and the production of the built environment in developing countries. Conventional theory on urban location and structure is critically reviewed and shown to be inadequate or inappropriate for explaining urban form in these countries. In contrast, the conceptual framework developed in this paper is argued to be more theoretically sound, leading to a more appropriate policy disposition for more effective urban management.
