Would You Prefer to Live in a City or a Village?

Living in the country, sandwiched between two small villages, with a beach just 20 minutes away, offers a serene, quiet life that many find blissful. However, the choice between city and rural living can be influenced by various factors including source of living, personal preferences, and lifestyle.

The Past and Present: A Young Miner's Perspective

Before 1970, when I was a young mining utive posted in a remote area, village life was ideal. The area was sparsely populated, with no other utives within a ten-kilometer radius. There was no electricity, but our huts were designed to remain cool in the summer months. I was a bachelor, and I had two domestic servants. City life back then would have been unimaginable to me.

Now, living without an air conditioner, fridge, hot plate, or a washing machine, I miss the modern conveniences of city life. For me, city living offers access to amenities, diverse cultures, and career opportunities, while the rural life often provides a sense of community, tranquility, and connection to nature. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and priorities.

Personal Preferences: Averse to Overcrowded Places

I personally have no particular preference for one over the other. However, I must admit that I find crowded places, especially cities, highly unappealing. A misanthrope at heart, I would much rather live in a boreal forest 100km away from the nearest neighbor. Here, nature and solitude reign supreme, free from the hustle and bustle of modern society.

The Best of Both Worlds: Suburban Life

My personal experience has shown that a suburban environment can offer the best of both worlds. I lived in a small town 20 miles from London, where I was away from crime, multiculturalism, busyness, pollution, and overcrowding, yet still had easy access to work, shopping, and nightlife. The area had farmers' fields, a farm shop, country pubs, and numerous green spaces, including a forest with a lake and fantastic schools.

For those who wish to avoid the downsides of city life but still enjoy the lights of the city at a distance, a suburban environment is an excellent choice. Here, one can live without the pollution and noise of the city but not too far away to miss the city lights on the skyline.

The Mathematical Analogy of Village Living

It's interesting to note that the mathematical representation of the village life could be seen in terms of 1800 or fewer residents. When a village exceeds this number, the shortcomings of the area become more apparent. This is true for any town or city; as the population grows, the downsides become more visible. Underground cities, while fascinating, are not a permanent solution to the problems of overcrowded living spaces.

Ultimately, the choice between city and rural living depends on personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the conveniences of city life or the tranquility of rural living, it is important to consider what matters most to you.