For the first time in the history of humankind, urban dwellers outnumber rural residents and this trend is destined to continue. Urban places, towns and cities are of fundamental importance: even those living beyond the administrative or functional boundaries of a town or city, will have their lifestyle influenced to some degree by a nearby or distant city. An authoritative and stimulating introduction to the study of towns and cities, this book synthesizes a wealth of material to provide a comprehensive introduction for students of urban geography. It draws on a rich blend of theoretical and empirical information, to advance their knowledge of the city. Divided into six main parts,Β it explains and discusses: the field of urban geography and the importance of a global perspective the historical growth of cities from the earliest times and the urban geography of the major world regions the dynamics of urban structure and land use change in Western citieseconomy, society and politics in the Western city the economic, social, political and environmental challenge faced by the Third World City an overview on the future of cities and cities of the future. A practical text, this clearly structured and coherent book featuresΒ superb illustrations (including a full colour plate section and over 150 informative diagrams), global case studies, a glossary of terms and key words, chapter summaries and key points, and annotated further reading lists.