Cities are back in town : sociologie urbaine pour un monde globalisé

Sciences Po via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/developpement-urbain

Introduction

**Course Review: Cities are back in town: Sociologie urbaine pour un monde globalisé** In today’s rapidly urbanizing world, understanding the intricacies of cities and their roles in global society has never been more vital. The course titled "Cities are Back in Town: Sociologie urbaine pour un monde globalisé" available on Coursera offers an in-depth exploration of urban sociology, capable of equipping participants with insights needed to comprehend the dynamics of urbanization in the context of globalization. ### Overview As highlighted in the course description, globalization and Europeanization are driving the swift development of urban environments across the globe. We are in an era characterized by the rise of megacities—conurbations with populations exceeding 15 million—such as Tokyo, Calcutta, and New York. This course delves into the sociological implications of this urban growth, exploring various theoretical frameworks for understanding contemporary urban landscapes, from the emergence of global cities to the complexities of post-metropolitan regions. ### Course Syllabus The course is structured into a series of modules, each focusing on a distinct aspect of urban sociology: 1. **Introduction to Urban Sociology**: This module sets the stage by introducing key definitions and establishing foundational questions in urban studies, alongside powerful models that will frame subsequent discussions. 2. **European City Model**: Participants are introduced to the Weberian integration model, providing insights into how European cities have evolved historically and the sociocultural factors influencing their development. 3. **Colonial and Post-Colonial Cities**: This section of the course examines cities shaped by colonial influences, highlighting how historical contexts impact urban development even in the post-colonial era. 4. **Industrial Cities and Socialist Models**: Discussing the Marxist interpretation of industrial cities, this module scrutinizes the societal transformations that occurred during industrialization and the unique characteristics of socialist urban planning. 5. **American Metropolises and the Chicago School**: Here, learners explore the paradigms established by the Chicago School, which paved the way for contemporary urban sociology, with a focus on the unique challenges faced by American cities. 6. **Global Cities and Megacities**: The course identifies traits of global cities and examines the phenomenon of megacities through the lens of urban fragmentation and sociological differences. 7. **Smart Cities and Science and Technology Sociology**: The final module introduces the concept of smart cities, examining the intersection of technology and urban life and how technological advancements are reshaping our understanding of urban spaces. ### Review and Recommendations This course is not just a collection of theoretical concepts; it provides a robust framework for understanding the complexities of modern urban life. The integration of historical, cultural, and technological perspectives offers depth that is often missed in other urban studies courses. Whether you're a student of sociology, an urban planner, or simply someone who is deeply interested in the future of cities, this course is an invaluable resource. It has the potential to expand your understanding and critical thinking regarding urban environments and their interconnections in a globalized world. The instructors are knowledgeable, and the course format is engaging, featuring a mix of video lectures, readings, and interactive assignments that encourage learners to apply their knowledge. Additionally, the global nature of the course content makes it relevant regardless of your geographical context. ### Final Thoughts "Cities are Back in Town: Sociologie urbaine pour un monde globalisé" is a must-take for anyone interested in grasping the transformative forces shaping contemporary urban spaces. The knowledge gained from this course will empower you to better analyze and participate in discussions around urbanization and its societal impacts. With cities being at the forefront of global changes, understanding the sociological dynamics of urban life is not just academic; it’s essential for being an informed citizen in this interconnected world. Enroll today and embark on a journey through the vibrant landscapes of urban sociology.

Syllabus

Introduction, définitions, questions urbaines et l'utilisation de modèles

Introduction to urban sociology

Les villes européennes et le modèle d'intégration wébérien

European city model

Les villes coloniales et post coloniales

Colonial city model

Les villes industrielles (et les villes socialistes) et les modèles marxistes

Industrial city model

Les métropoles américaines et l'école de Chicago

Metropolis model

Les post-métropoles, fragments et différences

Global city model

Les villes mondiales et les mégacités

Post metroplis model

Les villes intelligentes et la sociologie des sciences et technologies

Digital city model