This is an excellent article on the historical design purposes on urban centered parks and how they turned out to make sure that all classes of people in an urban location had access to a gathering place that was beautiful and natural. Olmstead who designed NYC Central Park and many other locations around the nation in the 19th century believed that these parks strengthen democracy by providing locations for the poor, the middle class and the wealthy to gather regardless of their political views or statements/economic position.
This article is a good discussion of the importance in the 21st century of parks and natural gathering spaces for urban centers. It is applicable to the current discussions on urban and rural design and community advancement. Leaders in the public square will benefit by reading and applying some of the theories in this article. A worthwhile read.
http://www.zocalopublicsquare.org/2015/12/17/do-beautiful-parks-strengthen-democracy/ideas/nexus/