The two finalists for the building(s) to replace the World Trade Center have been announced. They would be among the tallest buildings in the world. I know I’m in a minority here at NR when I say this, but I think this is a mistake. Yes, it’s satisfying to defy the S.O.B.’s who destroyed the WTC by building something taller than before, but it can’t be denied that doing so would present irresistible targets to future terrorists. Everybody knows that, so who is going to want to work in those buildings, especially in the upper floors? Some would, but many wouldn’t. And who is going to want to insure them? Has anybody estimated the costs of insurance? Furthermore, does it really make economic sense to concentrate offices in skyscrapers in the Internet age (e.g., telecommuting)?