Divided Cities

This book explores how cities are becoming increasingly divided, physically and symbolically, and how these divisions shape the urban experience. It examines social, cultural, political, and economic processes and offers a framework for understanding divisions in cities beyond the West.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the growing phenomenon of urban divisions, exploring the intricate processes that shape and sustain these divisions both physically and symbolically. It examines the various factors contributing to these divisions, including social, cultural, political, and economic factors, and critically engages with them to understand their impact on the urban experience. The book also offers a novel framework for understanding divisions in cities by examining them beyond the Western lens. Drawing on international examples from a diverse range of cities, the book provides a theoretical and conceptual foundation for comprehending contemporary divisions and fragmentations in urban spaces.

The book begins by examining the physical divisions of cities, such as urban sprawl, segregation, and the division of land use. It explores how these divisions create barriers between different communities and exacerbate social and economic inequalities. The authors then turn to the symbolic divisions of cities, such as cultural differences, religious tensions, and political polarization, and examine how these divisions shape the way individuals and groups interact with each other.

One of the key themes of the book is the impact of digital technologies on urban divisions. The authors argue that the increasing prevalence of digital technologies has created new divisions within cities, particularly between those who have access to these technologies and those who do not. They explore how digital divides have led to disparities in access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, and how they have contributed to the formation of social and economic inequalities.

Another important theme of the book is the relationship between health inequalities and urban divisions. The authors argue that health inequalities are closely linked to social and economic divisions within cities, and that these inequalities have significant consequences for the health and well-being of urban residents. They explore how health inequalities are shaped by factors such as income, education, housing, and access to healthcare, and how they contribute to the perpetuation of social and economic disparities.

The book also examines the consequences of civic conflict and war on urban divisions. The authors argue that these conflicts can exacerbate existing divisions and create new ones, particularly in post-conflict cities. They explore how civic conflict and war have led to the displacement of populations, the destruction of infrastructure, and the breakdown of social networks, and how they have contributed to the formation of new social and economic inequalities.

In addition to examining the causes and consequences of urban divisions, the book offers a framework for understanding these divisions in terms of viewing cities beyond the Western lens. The authors argue that cities around the world are facing similar challenges and opportunities, and that a global perspective is necessary to develop effective strategies for addressing these challenges. They provide examples from a range of cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Mumbai, and Nairobi, to demonstrate how different cities are responding to urban divisions and how they are developing innovative solutions to address these challenges.

Overall, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of urban studies and urban planning. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the growing phenomenon of urban divisions and their impact on urban residents. The book's interdisciplinary approach and global perspective make it accessible to a wide range of readers, including policymakers, urban planners, researchers, and community members. By examining the various factors contributing to urban divisions and offering a framework for understanding these divisions in terms of viewing cities beyond the Western lens, the book provides valuable insights and recommendations for addressing these challenges and creating more inclusive and sustainable cities.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138960954