Hgap 6.3

Learning Goals

• 46-1 Describe world cities and their roles in globalization.

• 46-2 Explain the networks and linkages that drive globalization.

Globalizing Forces and Urban Life

• Globalizing forces focus on the integration of international economies, interactions among peoples, and cultural reshaping, centered on urban life.

• Both benefits and challenges of globalization are evident in cities.

The Rise of World Cities

Definition of World Cities

• World cities: hubs of international economy; centers of political and economic power that have evolved through history.

Historical Context

• 14th Century: Bergen, Norway, established as a major trading city.

• 16th Century: Bergen prominent in trade, especially dried cod; immigration leads to growth.

• 17th-18th Centuries: European cities like London, Amsterdam, Paris become influential.

• 19th Century: Cities such as Berlin, Chicago, New York, and St. Petersburg rise in power.

Characteristics of World Cities

• Command and control centers for global economy.

• Home to multinational corporations, financial service providers, media giants, and economic services.

• Cities like New York, London, and Tokyo hold power in commercial decisions.

• Characteristics: cultural diversity, institutions (museums, symphonies), environmental focus, and accessibility attract talent.

Expansion of List

• In 1991, only New York, London, and Tokyo were recognized as world cities.

• Expanded list includes Paris, Hong Kong, Singapore, Los Angeles, Sydney, Berlin, etc.

Concept of Nodes in Global Cities

• World cities act as nodes: connected places for international action.

• Example: Paris and London exert political influence over their respective countries.

• New York is a significant economic hub, although not a capital.

Economic Power and Global Cosmopolitan Class

• Rise of a global cosmopolitan elite: wealthy individuals who move easily between world cities.

• Concentration of wealth often dictates importance of cities.

• London leads in high-net-worth individual concentrations, followed by New York and Tokyo.

• AP Exam Tip: World cities are defined more by economic linkages than population size.

Gated Communities

• Development of gated communities within cities reflects global elite desires for security and exclusivity.

• Features include private governance, security, and community amenities (clubhouses, golf courses).

• Growth attributed to rising income inequality and urban crime concerns.

Connections and World Cities

Networks Driving Globalization

• World cities drive globalization through transportation, communications, and business service networks.

Transportation Services

• Efficient transportation systems: harbors, ports, and major international airports.

• Airports offer amenities and connect to high-speed rail systems for efficient urban transport.

Communications Systems

• World cities have advanced communication networks providing access to crucial information for governments and corporations.

• Includes media organizations for local and international news and market reports.

Business Services

• Business services include stock exchanges, bond markets, and foreign currency markets.

• Home to international organizations (WHO, UNESCO) and large pools of educated talent.

Conclusion

• World cities have historically held economic and political power, evolving into large, dynamic global centers.

• They drive globalization through advanced communication and transportation systems.

• The next module will focus on regional and local scales.