This book presents an incisive outline of the historical development and
geography of cities. It focuses on three themes that constitute
essential foundations for any understanding of urban form and function.
These are: (a) the shifting patterns of urbanization through historical
time, (b) the role of cities as centers of production and work in a
globalizing world, and (c) the diverse housing and shelter needs of
urban populations. The book also explores a number of critical urban
problems and the political challenges that they pose. Empirical evidence
from urban situations on all five continents is brought into play
throughout the discussion.