What is New about Globalisation and What Does it Portend for Cities?
Author(s)
Savitch, H. V.
Abstract
This article addresses the questions of what is new about globalisation and what globalisation means for cities in the future. Savitch begins with the notion that globalisation must be considered in its totality, as part of a complex bundle of technological, economic, and socio–cultural forces. Savitch also points out that globalisation is a process that gradually evolves and not a thing that suddenly appears. While every new age holds marked change, it also contains elements of continuity. Globalisation is no different, and Savitch compare it to previous ages. Globalisation is then defined as holding five essential components: (1) new technology, (2) the centrality of information made possible by instant communication, (3) an increasing trend toward the standardisation of economic and social products, (4) growing cross–national integration, and (5) mutual vulnerability stemming from greater interdependence. The last section of the article lists both the positive and negative implications that globalisation portends for cities. The good news includes rising prosperity, the enduring importance of urban cores, and increased democracy. The bad news consists of sharpening imbalances, increased social disorder, and greater citizen expectations. Finally, I suggest some ways of coping with these prospects.
