Conclusions

Cells have survived the tough selection pressures of millions of years of biological evolution. Perhaps we should turn the matter on its head, and ask if there are things we can learn about our cities by looking at living cells.

• Cells are highly organised and exceptionally efficient; they are neither too big nor too small. They have evolved effective ways to interact with their neighbours.
• There is a wonderful sense of cooperation within a cell. Every part of the cell works towards the healthy functioning of the whole.
• Cells pass on knowledge from one generation to the next. Accessible, usable information is the key to evolutionary success.

So perhaps when you next walk around a city, you will see it just a little differently.

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