Abstract: We explore the connection between new decentralised data infrastructure and the spatial organisation of cities. Recent advances in digital technologies for data generation, storage and coordination (e.g. blockchain-based supply chains and proof-of-location services) enables more granulated, decentralised and tradeable data about city life. We propose that this new digital infrastructure for information in cities shifts the organisation and planning of city life downwards and opens new opportunities for entrepreneurial discovery. Compared to centralised governance of smart cities, crypto-cities are more emergent orderings. This paper introduces this research agenda on the boundaries of spatial economics, the economics of cities, information economics, institutional economics and technological change.
Author(s): Darcy W. E. Allen, Chris Berg, Kiersten Jowett, Mikayla Novak, Jason Potts
Journal: Cosmos + Taxis
Vol: 8 Issue: 8–9 Year: 2020 Pages: 117–129
Available at: Cosmos + Taxis and in PDF here. Preprint available at SSRN. (Previously titled ‘Spatial Institutional Cryptoeconomics’)
Cite: Allen, Darcy W. E., Chris Berg, Kiersten Jowett, Mikayla Novak, and Jason Potts. “The Cryptoeconomics of Cities, Data and Space.” Cosmos + Taxis, vol. 8, no. 8–9, 2020, pp. 117–129.