Theoretical Perspectives on the City begins by explaining how researchers have different techniques when analyzing urban society. They need to formulate appropriate questions to study and also consider how urban areas are affected both socially and economically. The way cities develop can depend on numerous factors such as income levels, the forms of infrastructure that are present, and also whether there are interactions between communities. I do wish this article went more in depth with the studies of social area analysis and how studying the population characteristics can help one to better understand the neighborhoods in cities. Various sociologists debated on the transition from rural to urban life and its effects. For example, Ferdinand Tönnies believed that urbanization caused there to be more independent individuals “acting for their own self-interest” as opposed to rural life and its close communities. I disagree with his idea that urban life can adversely affect society and with his statement that cities are “impersonal.” One can still find many close communities in each neighborhood. People of different backgrounds can introduce their own cultural ideas and beliefs that can benefit society and help it expand.

Question: Do you agree with Tönnies and his idea that urban life can create “impersonal cities” that can negatively impact society while rural areas have more tight-knit communities?