This article explores the theory linking the construction of skyscrapers to economic downturns, also known as the "Skyscraper Curse." It examines the evidence for and against this theory, including recent research that challenges the idea of a causal relationship.
The Skyscraper Index, a descriptive timeline, was created by economist Andrew Lawrence (2012), and is widely discussed and debated in the popular media. It presents an intriguing perspective on the relationship between building super tall buildings and economic cycles. The Skyscraper Curse is not universally accepted among economists. Critics argue that the correlation does not imply causation and that the construction of skyscrapers might be more of a symptom of economic conditions rather than a cause of economic downturns. Some point out that many skyscrapers have been built without preceding economic crises, indicating that other factors are also at play.
Dr. N. Subramanian, Ph.D., FNAE