Reading Guide for Week 2

Evolution of Cities

GVPT 461

1. How does the urban/suburban development so characteristic of the U.S. differ from the patterns seen in other countries around the world?

2. How have private motives influenced the nature of suburban development?

3. What government decisions have influenced the pattern of suburban development?

4. Does gentrification ameliorate urban problems? Why or why not?

5. How does "steering" affect racial and ethnic patterns of residential settlement?

6. How has the taxpayer revolt affected funding for public school education and what options do cities have available to them if they wish to raise additional educational funds (I'm not talking slot machines ...)?

7. What strategies can suburbs use to effectively limit minority access to their communities (legally)?

8. What strategies have a few communities used to encourage/maintain racial integration?