Urban studies Midterm review

Factory city:

A city that has developed around a specific industry or factory.

Primate city

A city that is much larger than any other city in a country or region, often dominating economic and political activity.

Burgess model zones

A model that describes urban land use as concentric rings, with the central business district in the middle and residential areas radiating outwards in zones of varying socio-economic status.

Urban crisis:

A period of economic, social, and political turmoil in urban areas, often characterized by declining population, high levels of poverty and crime, and deteriorating infrastructure

Blockbusting

A practice used by real estate agents to induce panic selling among homeowners in a particular area, often based on the fear of an influx of minority residents.

Pruitt-Igoe:

A public housing project in St. Louis, Missouri, that became notorious for its high crime rates and social problems before being demolished in the 1970s.

Chicago School

A school of urban sociology that emerged in Chicago in the early 20th century, emphasizing the importance of urbanism in shaping social structures and behaviors.

Wirth's characteristics of urban life

A set of characteristics that define urban living, including high population density, social diversity, and a focus on the public rather than the private.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units such as states or provinces.

Tenement

A type of low-cost housing found in urban areas, usually consisting of multiple small apartments or rooms.

Racial covenants

Agreements or restrictions in property deeds that prohibit the sale or rental of property to individuals of certain races or ethnicities.

How are patterns of urbanization related to the changes in economic systems? - Ancient - Medieval - Colonial - Industrial

Ancient: In ancient times, urbanization was driven by the development of agriculture, trade, and the rise of early civilizations. Cities were centers of political power and commerce, and their growth was closely linked to economic prosperity. Medieval: During the Middle Ages, urbanization was driven by the growth of feudalism and the rise of cities as centers of trade and commerce. The rise of guilds and the growth of merchant capitalism helped to fuel the growth of cities in Europe and the Middle East. Colonial: In the colonial era, urbanization was closely tied to the expansion of empires and the growth of trade. The development of colonial cities like London, Paris, and Lisbon was closely linked to the exploitation of colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Industrial: In the industrial era, urbanization was driven by the growth of manufacturing and the rise of capitalist economies. The development of industrial cities like Manchester, Detroit, and Tokyo was closely linked to the growth of factories and the need for labor.

Localization economies

Benefits that arise from firms being located close to each other within a particular industry, such as shared knowledge or specialized suppliers.

Urbanization economies

Benefits that arise from urbanization, such as increased productivity and innovation due to the concentration of people and resources.

External economies of scale:

Cost savings or benefits that result from the actions of other firms or industries in the same geographical area, such as shared infrastructure, labor markets, or specialized suppliers.

Employment sectors

Different types of jobs or industries, often categorized as primary (extractive), secondary (manufacturing), or tertiary (services).

Informal economy/informality:

Economic activity that takes place outside of formal regulations, often characterized by low wages, insecure employment, and a lack of social protections.

Explain how economic phenomena or principles such as comparative advantage, economies of scale, agglomeration economies shape urbanization over time and how they are interrelated with the socio-cultural phenomena thinkers like Wirth and Weber placed at the center of urbanization?

Economic principles like comparative advantage, economies of scale, and agglomeration economies have influenced urbanization over time. They explain why certain industries concentrate in specific cities, why large urban areas grow, and how they benefit from the concentration of economic activity. These economic principles are linked to socio-cultural phenomena, such as the development of urban cultures and identities, which are shaped by the concentration of diverse populations and economic activity. Thinkers like Wirth and Weber have highlighted the interplay between economic and socio-cultural phenomena in driving urbanization and shaping the growth and development of cities. How have patterns of urbanization changed over time? Urbanization is when people move from rural areas to cities. In the US, this started in the late 1800s with industrialization, and then moved to the suburbs in the mid-1900s. More recently, there's been a trend of people moving back to cities. Globally, urbanization has increased a lot over the past century, with over half the world's population now living in cities. However, the patterns of urbanization are different in developed versus developing countries, with developing countries experiencing rapid growth in cities.

How does Burgess' model of the growth of the city conceptualize urban growth- what are the three features of the growth of the city? What do they mean for how cities change? Was he right? Wrong? Somewhere in between? What are the positives and negatives of trying to develop a wholistic model of the city? How does redlining fit into this model?

Ernest Burgess' model of the growth of the city, also known as the concentric zone model, conceptualizes urban growth as a series of concentric rings expanding outward from the city center. Burgess identified three features of this growth. The central business district (CBD): This is the core of the city, where the major commercial and administrative activities are located. The inner city: This is the area surrounding the CBD, characterized by older housing stock, industrial activity, and a high population density. The suburbs: This is the outermost ring of the city, characterized by newer housing stock, lower population density, and a more suburban lifestyle. According to Burgess, cities change as they grow outward, with new zones being added to the periphery while older zones become re-purposed or abandoned. While his model has been criticized for oversimplifying the complex realities of urban growth and change, it remains a useful tool for understanding how cities evolve over time. Burgess was neither completely right nor completely wrong. While his model provides a useful framework for understanding urban growth, it fails to account for the impact of factors such as government policies, economic trends, and social dynamics on urban change. Additionally, the model is limited by its focus on the physical structure of the city, which may not fully capture the complexity of urban life. One positive aspect of developing a holistic model of the city is that it can provide a framework for understanding the complex interplay of social, economic, and political factors that shape urban life. However, one negative aspect is that such models may oversimplify or ignore important aspects of urban life, such as the experiences of marginalized communities. Redlining, the practice of denying access to housing, insurance, or other services to people based on their race or ethnicity, fits into Burgess' model in that it contributed to the physical segregation of cities. Redlining reinforced racial and economic segregation, pushing people of color and low-income residents into the inner city while wealthier, white residents moved to the suburbs. This had profound and lasting impacts on the physical and social structure of cities.

Push and pull factors

Factors that either push people out of their current location or pull them towards a new location, often related to economic or social conditions.

Louis Wirth's work, "Urbanism as a Way of Life" is a typical sociological perspective on urbanization. In it, he argued that urban life was fundamentally different than rural life. How did he define "urban" and what was his point about urban life? Provide an example and explain if you agree or disagree with Wirth and why.

Louis Wirth's work, "Urbanism as a Way of Life," is a classic sociological perspective on urbanization. He defined "urban" as a densely populated area characterized by a high degree of social heterogeneity, the prevalence of secondary relationships, and a weak sense of community. Wirth argued that these characteristics of urban life led to a distinctive way of life that was fundamentally different from rural life. According to Wirth, urban life was characterized by a high degree of social and cultural diversity, which led to a breakdown of traditional social structures and the prevalence of secondary relationships. In urban areas, people were more likely to interact with strangers and engage in impersonal relationships, rather than relying on close-knit family or community networks. Wirth also argued that urban life was marked by a weak sense of community and a lack of social cohesion. In urban areas, people were more likely to be anonymous and isolated, with few meaningful connections to their neighbors or their community. An example of this can be seen in large, densely populated cities like New York City, where people often live in apartments or other high-density housing, and interact with a diverse range of people from different backgrounds on a daily basis. The prevalence of impersonal relationships and weak social ties can make it difficult for people to form deep connections and feel a sense of belonging to their community. While I agree with Wirth's observations about the distinctive characteristics of urban life, I also think it's important to recognize that urban areas are not monolithic, and that there is a great deal of diversity within and between cities. Additionally, urban areas can also offer many benefits, such as access to cultural amenities, economic opportunities, and social services. Overall, I think Wirth's work provides a valuable perspective on urbanization, but it is important to recognize the complexity and diversity of urban life.

Institutions

Organizations or structures that shape economic, political, and social activity, such as governments, schools, and businesses.

What were the characteristics of the early industrial city?

Overall, the early industrial city was characterized by rapid industrialization, urbanization, pollution, inadequate housing, significant investments in infrastructure, and social stratification.

Why are urban areas seen as engines of growth?

Overall, urban areas are seen as engines of growth because they offer a concentration of economic activity, human capital, infrastructure, markets, and investment. This can lead to higher productivity, innovation, and economic growth.

What was redlining? Explain the five ways that redlining created long-term impacts on US cities in your own words.

Redlining was a practice in the US that denied mortgage loans and other services to residents of certain neighborhoods based on their race or ethnicity. This led to several long-term impacts on US cities including concentrated poverty and racial segregation.

Rural v suburban v urban:

Rural areas are sparsely populated and often characterized by agriculture and natural landscapes. Suburban areas are usually residential areas outside of a city, often with lower population densities. Urban areas are densely populated areas with a high level of economic and social activity.

FHA

The Federal Housing Administration, a U.S. government agency that provides mortgage insurance on loans made by approved lenders, helping to facilitate home ownership. Est. 1933.

HOLC

The Home Owners' Loan Corporation, a U.S. government agency established during the Great Depression to provide refinancing of mortgages to prevent foreclosures. Est. 1933.

Comparative advantage:

The ability of an individual, firm, or country to produce a particular good or service at a lower opportunity cost than other producers.

Central Business District (CBD)

The commercial and business center of a city, usually located in the downtown area.

What were the conditions that led to urbanization? How did the varying roles of these conditions create different urban forms in ancient cities?

The conditions that led to urbanization in ancient times included: Agricultural Surplus: The development of agriculture allowed for the production of a surplus of food, which supported the growth of permanent settlements and led to the development of cities. Trade and Commerce: Cities were often located in areas that were favorable for trade and commerce, such as along rivers or at the crossroads of major trade routes. Political Power: Cities often served as centers of political power, with rulers and elites based in urban centers. Religion and Culture: Cities were often centers of religion and culture, with temples, shrines, and other cultural institutions playing a central role in urban life. These varying roles of the conditions that led to urbanization created different urban forms in ancient cities. For example, cities that were primarily driven by agricultural surplus tended to be organized around a central marketplace or plaza, with residential areas radiating outward from the center. In contrast, cities that were primarily driven by trade and commerce tended to be organized along major trade routes, with commercial and industrial areas located along these routes and residential areas located in other parts of the city. Similarly, cities that were primarily centers of political power tended to have grand civic buildings and public spaces, while cities that were primarily centers of religion and culture tended to have grand temples and other religious buildings. These varying urban forms were shaped by the specific conditions that led to urbanization in each case, and helped to create distinct urban cultures and identities.

Economies of scale:

The cost advantages that result from increased production or output, often due to lower per-unit costs.

Transaction costs

The costs associated with the exchange of goods or services, such as the cost of finding a trading partner, negotiating a price, or enforcing contracts.

Externalities

The costs or benefits that arise from economic activity but are not directly reflected in market prices.

Agglomeration economies

The economic benefits that arise from firms and workers being located close together, leading to lower costs and increased efficiency.

Neighborhood effects

The impact of one's neighborhood on social, economic, and health outcomes, often mediated by factors such as social networks, crime rates, and access to resources.

Urban population threshold:

The minimum number of people required for an area to be considered urban, often determined by population density and other factors such as economic and social activity.

Urban Population Threshold

The minimum number of people required for an area to be considered urban.

How were patterns of suburbanization in the US unique? What were some of the central causes of the disparity between US suburbanization and suburbanization elsewhere?

The patterns of suburbanization in the US were unique due to various factors. The availability of land and government policies like the GI Bill and FHA facilitated homeownership and suburbanization for white Americans, resulting in a racial disparity. The development of the interstate highway system and the desire for a better quality of life and social status also contributed to suburbanization in the US. These factors made US suburbanization different from other countries.

Urban Expansion:

The physical growth of urban areas, often through the expansion of infrastructure and buildings.

Redlining

The practice of refusing to offer loans or insurance to people based on their race or the racial makeup of their neighborhood.

Filtering

The process of older, higher-quality housing becoming less desirable and less expensive over time, often leading to the housing becoming affordable to lower-income residents.The process of older, higher-quality housing becoming less desirable and less expensive over time, often leading to the housing becoming affordable to lower-income residents.

Suburbanization

The process of population movement from urban to suburban areas, often driven by factors such as the availability of housing, better schools, and a desire for a quieter lifestyle.

Urban renewal

The process of revitalizing urban areas through the demolition and redevelopment of buildings and infrastructure.

Overurbanization

The process of urbanization occurring at an unsustainable rate, often resulting in overcrowding, pollution, and social problems.

Planetary urbanization

The process of urbanization occurring on a global scale, leading to the formation of vast urban regions or "megacities."

Where did urbanization first occur and why?

The process of urbanization, or the growth of cities and urban areas, can be traced back to the earliest civilizations in human history. The first known urban areas emerged in the Fertile Crescent, an area that includes parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey, around 4000 BCE. One of the main reasons why urbanization occurred in this region was the development of agriculture, which allowed people to settle in one place and form permanent communities. This led to the growth of villages and eventually cities, as populations increased and people began to specialize in different trades and professions. Over time, other factors such as trade, transportation, and industrialization also played a role in driving urbanization, as people migrated to cities in search of employment and economic opportunities. Today, urbanization continues to be driven by a range of factors, including globalization, technological advancements, and demographic changes. 1. Surplus of agriculture, 2. Political and cultural centers, 3. Division of labor

Segregation

The separation of individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.

Division of labor

The specialization of different individuals or groups in different tasks or jobs, often leading to increased productivity and economic growth.

What role has transport played in shaping cities over time?

Transport has played a significant role in shaping cities over time. The availability and efficiency of transportation systems have influenced the size, form, and development of urban centers. From ancient times to the present, transport has been a major driver of urbanization, leading to the growth of cities around trade routes and transportation networks. The development of steam-powered transport during the Industrial Revolution led to the growth of industrial cities and urban expansion. In the 20th century, the widespread use of automobiles and highways led to suburbanization and increased traffic congestion in cities. Today, cities are working towards developing sustainable transport systems that support economic growth and reduce negative impacts on the environment and public health.

Urban Growth

Urban Growth: The increase in the number of people living in urban areas over time.

Define urban. What is the difference between the word urban and the word city? Where does suburban fit in?

Urban refers to an area that is characterized by a high population density, typically consisting of buildings, infrastructure, and other features of a developed human settlement. The term "urban" can also describe the lifestyle and culture associated with living in such areas. The word "city" is often used interchangeably with "urban," but it typically refers specifically to a large and highly developed urban area with a high degree of economic, social, and cultural activity. Suburban areas, on the other hand, are typically located at the periphery of cities and are characterized by lower population densities, more open space, and a greater degree of separation between residential, commercial, and industrial areas. While they are often considered a part of the larger urban area, suburban areas may have a distinct character and culture compared to the city center.

Urbanization

Urbanization: The process of the population shift from rural areas to urban areas, often accompanied by economic and social changes.