The distribution of the world’s population is now more urban than rural. Contemporary and historical urban patterns are identified and their causes are evaluated. Urban development was largely confined to developed countries before mid-century but has spread to developing countries since. Both outcomes are seen as interdependent consequences of the growth and geographical extension of capitalism. The merits of the interdependency theory are assessed. Recent urbanization in Africa and Asia is a locational response to the new global economic order. Cities have grown because of the influx of manufacturing and service jobs from the developed economies, and the in-migration of workers displaced by agricultural adjustment. The prospects for further urbanization are considered.
