Cities, Change, and Conflict: A Political Economy of Urban Life

CITIES, CHANGE, AND CONFLICT - A POLITICAL ECONOMY OF URBAN LIFE discusses the importance of cities for the economic, cultural, and political life of modern societies. The author consistently uses the political economy perspective to introduce students to the basic concepts and research in urban sociology, while also acknowledging the contributions of the human ecology perspective. Through the use of case studies, the presentation remains accessible and down-to-earth, engaging the student in the material.

Kleniewski (Bridgewater State College) emphasizes the political economy paradigm, integrating theory, research, and policy implications throughout this introductory text. While emphasizing sociological studies, she takes an interdisciplinary approach to urban issues. This third edition offers new and updated information on urban neighborhoods, local government and finances, the global sex industry, and cities and the creative class. Also new is an introduction to the concepts of economic, cultural, and social capital. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Nancy Kleniewski is president of the State University of New York College at Oneonta. Her background, research, teaching, and publications focus on urban sociology and urban policy.