The Chronicle: Colloquy: The question

THE QUESTION

For most of the 20th century, the "Chicago School" dominated urban studies. Under its model, cities are based on a commercial core with rings of industry and settlement extending outward. In recent years an "L.A. School" has begun to challenge that view. While Los Angeles never fit the Chicago School's model, the city was viewed as so unique that it was largely ignored by urban-studies scholars. Now, scholars in the L.A. School argue that Los Angeles is indeed the model on which urban studies should be based, and that its economy, ethnic groups, and geography are relevant to understanding urban areas worldwide. While the L.A. School is gaining support, some question its assumptions and say that its view of urban life is too pessimistic. Is Los Angeles the proper focal point for the future of urban studies? Has the "L.A. School" of urban studies overtaken the "Chicago School"? What are the hot areas in urban studies today?

For further information, see this background article:

The New Urban Studies (8/18/2000)

: 27 RESPONSES (New 10/26)

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