Globalization+of+Cities

Globalization of Cities

Some cities become so influential that they become internationally connected to other cities with the same influence. These cities are called **world cities**, or global cities. They are important because they have the ability to provide services in the world economy. There are three levels of world cities: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma cities. Having the most influence of all, New York and London are examples of Alpha cities. Beta cities, such as San Francisco and Sydney, have less play globally than Alpha cities. Although they have the least influence of the three levels, which include Beijing and Rome, they still function on a global scale.

Megacities**1]**

Megacities are cities that have experienced extreme population and migration growth. Consequences of this growth include homelessness, poverty, pollution, and more unplanned growth. These cities are mostly found in developing countries (see Population Pyramids to make the connection between growth in population and the development of a country).

Spaces of Consumption

Cities become spaces of consumption as companies try to promote their products in the city. Times Square is a perfect example of why New York is a space of consumption. Restaurants, such as Hard Rock Cafe, were built in order to attract customers, thus resulting in consumption of products of those companies. The Amsterdam Theater, which is the highlight of Times Square, shows Disney musicals, bringing in high revenue for Disney.

Urbanization VIdeo:

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Citations

1. Marsh, Meredith, and Peter S. Alagona. //[|Barron's AP Human Geography]//. 3rd ed. //Google Books//. Google. Web. 4 Jan. 2012.  2. De Blij, H.J., Alexander B. Murphy, and Erin H. Fouberg. "Urban Geography." // Human Geography: People, Place, and Culture //. Eighth ed. John Wiley & Sons, 2007. 257-99. Print. 3. New York Times Square. Photograph. Wikipedia. Wikimedia. Web. 5 Jan. 2012. . 

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