Geography

Geographies of Cities and Mobilities

Module code: 017GRS
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar, Fieldwork
Assessment modes: Essay

Over half the world’s population lives in cities, with this projected to be over two-thirds by 2050. Much of that growth is in cities in Africa and Asia.

Cities are the ideal place to explore the dynamic geographies of how people live together, in an increasingly connected world. This module draws on social, cultural and urban geographies, as well as migration and mobility studies. It explores city lives, politics and the cultural diversity inherent to many urban spaces.

In taking this approach, we examine how factors such as class, ethnicity, political affiliation, religion, gender, location, and age shape the way people interpret and experience cities. The module will explore how urban places and spaces are shaped by:

• colonial and postcolonial histories
• global neo-liberalism
• resistance movements
• residents’ everyday lives.

We debate topical urban issues, exploring a range of methods and theoretical approaches to understanding geographies of cities and mobilities.

Module learning outcomes

• Identify and describe a selection of theories and concepts that have been used to explain the social and cultural geography of cities
• Discuss many of the global social and cultural connections that shape everyday life in cities
• Analyse an urban issue using an appropriate theoretical framework, whilst recognising its limitations
• Develop a line of argument in written answers to set questions