Introduction

This course explores the ways in which urbanization processes help to generate issues of public concern. It elaborates a theoretical framework of critical spatial thinking that can be used to analyze the complex ‘agency’ of urban processes in generating, identifying and resolving the myriad issues associated with contemporary urbanization. This framework draws on the traditions of urban thought and spatial theory in disciplines such as geography and anthropology, development studies, planning, political science, and sociology. The framework developed in this course is meant to serve as an analytical heuristic, a device for framing the questions that should be asked when seeking to understand any particular urban issue or a place-based problem.

Learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key theories and styles of critical spatial thinking and decision making as they relate to the challenge of transforming urban areas
• Apply a range of critical spatial and social theories to the analysis of specific issues
• Track the way that issues and challenges facing specific places emerge and manifest themselves
• Negotiate between a global level of analysis and the issues that are manifest in specific places.