[Mr. Silverback]

With less than half of the original population and many of them are 'living' very close to the edge, even now.

Yes, but Meaker's point remains valid. The city will still be there, and still be a major city, in five years, ten years, etc.

[blam]

" The city will still be there, and still be a major city, in five years, ten years, etc."

Only due to the resources of the rest of the nation.

Now, think of a nationwide or worldwide disaster. Without continuous food delivery our cities are 'empty-shelved' in 72 hours. Frankly, that's living to close to the edge for me.