6.3 Cities and Globalization

World Cities and Global Networks

Globalization connects cities into a hierarchical network of economic and cultural power. World cities (also called global cities) like New York, London, and Tokyo serve as command centers for the global economy, hosting headquarters of multinational corporations, financial institutions, and international organizations. These cities exert influence far beyond their national borders through finance, trade, media, and culture.

Measuring Global Influence

Geographers rank cities using indicators like producer services (banking, law, advertising), transportation hubs, media presence, and cultural institutions. Alpha, beta, and gamma world cities categorize influence levels. Cities compete globally for investment, talent, and tourism, leading to place-making strategies like iconic architecture, sports events, and rebranding to boost their global image and economic status.

Uneven Effects of Globalization

Globalization creates winners and losers within and between cities. Megacities in developing countries often grow rapidly due to global economic integration, but face strain from informal economies and inadequate infrastructure. Meanwhile, globalized cities can experience gentrification, rising inequality, and loss of local identity as global capital reshapes urban space, often displacing lower-income residents.

Key terms

World city (global city)

A city that serves as a major command center for global finance, trade, and culture, exerting influence beyond national borders.

Producer services

Specialized business services like banking, law, and advertising that concentrate in world cities.

Place-making

Strategies cities use, such as iconic architecture or hosting global events, to boost their image and attract global investment.

Gentrification

The process where rising property values from investment displace lower-income residents in urban neighborhoods.

Alpha/beta/gamma world cities

A ranking system classifying cities by their level of global economic influence and connectivity.

Try an AP-style question

World cities are defined by their…

1. how old the city is
2. total land area and nothing else
3. population size and nothing else
4. global economic and cultural influence