The index numbers that describe Atlanta are unusual in many respects, and indicate that the city is made up of extremes. Even the most casual observer who knew nothing about Atlanta would notice theses extremes and conclude that the city must have a number of serious problems. In fact, Atlanta is plagued with problems of racism and inequality. One reason for these problems is that Atlanta "developed as an 'accidental city' with what can generously be described as a laissez-faire approach to planning" (Rutheiser 139). The index figures point to several amazing contradictions such as the fac…
