Urban sociology

The Birth of Cities and functional classification of cities

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 Origin and Development of Urbanization
Period
1. Paleolithic (Old Stone Age)
• Periods of
Settlement Pattern
2. Neolithic (New Stone Age)
and Human Mode
of Life
3. Metal age (4th millennium)
4. Early Christian period
5. Middle ages
6. Modern period
Mode of life
commonly referred to as the Old Stone Age, was a
prehistoric period known for the development of stone
tools and the emergence of early human societies
marked a significant shift in human history from a
nomadic, hunter-gatherer lifestyle to settled agriculture
and the domestication of animals.
periods in prehistory and early history characterized by the
advancement and predominant use of specific metals for
tools, weapons, and various implements.
Emergence of early urban settlements as Ur, Thebes,
Babylon etc.
Establishment of famous cities-Greec- Roman cities (Athens,
cartage, Rome)
Establishment of pre-industrial cities- Cities of feudal
Europe (Florence, Venice, London, Frankfurt, etc.)
Industrial revolution occurred. Industrial and commercial
life style flourished (e.g. London, Paris, Berlin etc.)
Growth of metropolitan cities, mega polis 2
Explanations for the Origin of Cities
• The first cities seem to have appeared during the metal age. There is no agreement on the
exact time when early urban settlements emerged. Sociologists are interested more on the
factors which are responsible for the emergence of early urban settlements rather than in
determining the exact time of urban emergence.
• Different explanations have been given for the emergence of early urban settlements. For
our purpose, we will consider three approaches:
A. Philip M. Hauser
B. Gideon Sjoberg
C. Margaret Murray

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A. Philip M. Hauser
• Philip M. Hauser, an American sociologist, is known for his research on urbanization and
population studies. He identified four preconditions for the emergence of urban
settlements, emphasizing the importance of these factors in the development of cities.
Let's explore each of these preconditions:
a) Population Growth
b) The control of the natural environment;
c) Technological development; and
d) Developments in social organization

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a) Population Growth
• Population growth is a fundamental factor in the emergence of urban settlements. As more
people gather in a particular area, the need for social and economic organization increases.
Population growth often results from factors like natural population increase (births
exceeding deaths) and migration from rural areas to urban centers.
b) The Control of the Natural Environment
• The ability to control and harness the natural environment is vital for urbanization. This
includes the capacity to secure food and water, manage waste, and protect against natural
disasters. Urban settlements often require infrastructure such as water supply systems,
sewage systems, and transportation networks to ensure the well-being of their residents. The
development of these systems is essential for urban growth.
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b) The Control of the Natural Environment
• Hunter-Gatherer Societies: In the Paleolithic era, early humans lived as hunter-gatherers,
relying on the natural environment for survival. They adapted to various ecosystems, using
natural resources for food, shelter, and tools.
• Agricultural Revolution: The Neolithic era marked a pivotal shift with the emergence of
agriculture. Humans began domesticating plants and animals, altering landscapes for
farming and settlement. This transition led to greater control over the environment,
transforming ecosystems to suit human needs.
• Throughout history, human civilization has increasingly exerted control over the natural
environment.

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c) Technological Development
• Technological advancements play a crucial role in the emergence and development of urban
settlements. Technological innovations enable cities to improve infrastructure, enhance
transportation, and increase the efficiency of various economic activities.
• For example, the development of advanced construction techniques and machinery can lead
to the construction of tall buildings, which is characteristic of urban landscapes.
d) Developments in Social Organization
• Social organization refers to the way people interact, collaborate, and form social structures
within a community. Urbanization often results in more complex social structures compared
to rural areas. Cities require systems of governance, laws, education, and healthcare to
function effectively. The development of social institutions and organizations is a key
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precondition for the growth and stability of urban settlements.
B. Gideon Sjoberg

• He has identified three preconditions for the emergence of cities, which are similar with

the conditions proposed by Philip M. Hauser.

a) Favorable ecological base

b) An advanced technology

c) Complex social organization

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C. Margaret Murray
Emergence of the First Cities
Margaret Murray argued that the first cities emerged during the Metal Age, particularly in the
transition from the Neolithic period to the Bronze Age. This transition marked a significant
shift in human history as people began to use metals like bronze, copper, and later, iron for
various purposes, including tools, weapons, and ornaments.
Importance of Metallurgy
The introduction of metallurgy, the science of working with metals, had profound
consequences for human societies. Metal tools and weapons were more durable, efficient, and
versatile compared to earlier stone or organic materials. This technological advancement
revolutionized various aspects of human life, including agriculture, warfare, and trade.
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Military Superiority
• One of the key points made by Margaret Murray was the military superiority of those who
had access to metal weapons over those who were still using crude stone weapons or tools.
• The development of metal arms, such as bronze swords or iron spears, gave a significant
advantage to their users in combat.
• This led to a power shift in societies, with those possessing metal weaponry having the
upper hand over Neolithic peasants who lacked such technology.
• Murray's perspective highlights the role of technological innovation, specifically the
development of metallurgy, in shaping human history and the evolution of early
civilizations.

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• The transition from stone tools to metal tools was a pivotal moment in prehistoric and
ancient history, as it not only affected warfare but also influenced the agricultural and
economic practices of societies.
• This, in turn, played a significant role in the formation of the first cities, which often
served as centers of political and economic power in the ancient world.
• Murray's work contributed to our understanding of the dynamics that led to the rise of
complex societies and the importance of technological advancements in the ancient past.

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 Functional Classification Cities

• Functional classification of cities is a system used by governments and urban planners to

categorize and classify cities based on their size, role, and functions within a broader
urban hierarchy.
• This classification helps in better understanding and managing urban areas, making
decisions about infrastructure, transportation, and resource allocation.
• Functional classification of cities typically considers several key factors, including
population size, economic activities, administrative functions, and social services.

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Functional Classification Cities
• Cities are settlements where a number of activities are done. In this sense all cities are
multifunctional whatever they are small. It is possible to categorize urban centers based
on the major activities they carry out.
1. Economic centers 2. Capital cities
3. Industrial Cities 4. Port Cities
5. Tourism and Resort Cities 6. Educational and University Cities
7. Technology and Innovation Hubs 8. Cultural and Arts Centers
9. Transportation and Logistics Hubs 10. Medical and Healthcare Cities
11. Government and Diplomatic Centers 12. Diversified centers

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1. Economic centers
• An "economic city" typically refers to a planned urban
development or a designated area within a city that is
specifically designed and developed to stimulate economic
growth and development.
• These cities or zones are often created with the primary
goal of attracting businesses, promoting investment,
fostering innovation, and driving economic activities.
Economic cities can take various forms and have different
objectives, depending on the specific needs and goals of
the region or country.
e.g. New York city, London 14
2. Capital Cities
• Capital cities serve as the seat of government
for a country or region and play a central role
in its administrative, political, and symbolic
life.
• E.g. China being, France Paris, USA
Washington D.C

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• Political Significance: Capital cities are the political epicenter of a nation. They house the

country's government institutions, including the executive, legislative, and often the judicial

branches. This is where key decisions are made, laws are passed, and national policies are

formulated.

• Administrative Functions: Government agencies, ministries, and administrative offices are

concentrated in the capital city. This concentration of administrative power allows for

efficient governance and coordination of national affairs.

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3. Industrial Cities
• Industrial cities are known for their
significant manufacturing and industrial
activities.
• They often have a strong presence of
factories, production facilities, and
industrial infrastructure.
• Examples: Detroit (United States),
Stuttgart (Germany), Guangzhou (China).

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4. Port Cities
• Port cities are located along coastlines or
major waterways and serve as important hubs
for shipping, trade, and maritime activities.
• Examples: Shanghai (China), Rotterdam
(Netherlands), Singapore.

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5. Tourism and Resort Cities
• Tourism and resort cities are popular destinations
for leisure and vacation activities.
• They often feature hotels, restaurants,
entertainment, and cultural attractions.
• Transportation facility and income level of the
population determine the existence of such
centers. Dubai, Thailand, Hawassa, Bahirdar,
Bishoftu,

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6. Educational and University Cities
• Educational cities are known for their
concentration of universities, colleges,
and educational institutions.
• They often have a vibrant academic
and research community.
• Examples: Cambridge (United
Kingdom), Boston (United States),
Oxford (United Kingdom).

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7. Technology and Innovation Hubs
• These cities are centers of technological innovation, research, and development. They
often host technology companies, startups, and research institutions.
• Examples: Silicon Valley (United States), Bangalore (India), Tel Aviv (Israel).

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8. Cultural and Arts Centers
• Cultural cities are the majority of their activities
are basically cultural. Religious cultural centers
include cities like Jerusalem meka, Gonder,
lalibela and axum.
• known for their rich cultural heritage, arts scene,
and creative industries. They often host museums,
theaters, galleries, and cultural festivals.

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9. Transportation and Logistics Hubs
• These cities serve as key transportation
and logistics centers, with major
airports, rail terminals, and distribution
facilities.
• Examples: Mojo (Ethiopia), Atlanta
(United States), Frankfurt (Germany).

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10. Medical and Healthcare Cities
• Medical cities are known for their concentration
of healthcare facilities, medical research, and
medical tourism.
• Examples: Rochester (United States), Cleveland
(United States), Singapore (healthcare hub).

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11. Government and Diplomatic Centers
• These cities host national and international
governmental organizations, diplomatic
missions, and international embassies.
• Examples: Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Geneva
(Switzerland), Brussels (Belgium), Vienna
(Austria).

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12. Diversified centers:
Diversified centers: at times it becomes difficult
to classify urban centers in to a specific category
due to the absence of one dominant activity.
• Then we group such urban centers as
diversified centers.
• E.g. Addis Ababa…

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