In "Order without Design," Alain Bertaud presents a groundbreaking argument that marries the practicality of urban planning with the analytical precision of urban economics. Through a career spanning five decades and work in over forty cities worldwide, Bertaud has witnessed firsthand the pitfalls of planning cities through a purely qualitative lens—terms like "sustainable" and "livable" often lack actionable metrics. By integrating economic theories and models, Bertaud proposes a transformative approach that focuses on enhancing cities' productivity and the welfare of their inhabitants. He contends that effective urban planning should leverage market mechanisms for land and labor, a strategy that starkly contrasts with the inefficiencies observed in cities devoid of these markets, such as pre-reform China and Russia. Bertaud not only critiques the traditional, regulation-heavy methods of urban planning but also lays out a vision where infrastructure design and market forces complement each other, optimizing both land use and density. He emphasizes the importance of mobility and affordability in achieving urban environments that are truly vibrant and equitable. With compelling insights into the spatial dynamics of land prices and the critical role of labor market size in urban productivity, "Order without Design" challenges urban planners and economists to collaborate closely. Bertaud's call to action is clear: cities must be managed not by attempting to redesign the existing urban fabric, but by addressing and mitigating negative externalities through an informed, economically savvy approach. This book redefines the boundaries of urban planning and economics, offering a blueprint for cities that aspire to be both efficient and inclusive.