History of Urban Sociology

History of Urban Sociology

Urban sociology emerged as a distinct field of study in the late 19th century, as cities began to grow rapidly in size and complexity. One of the earliest and most influential urban sociologists was Georg Simmel, who argued that the unique features of urban life, such as its diversity and density, led to a distinctive form of social interaction characterized by anonymity, impersonality, and competition. Other early urban sociologists, such as Louis Wirth and Robert Park, also emphasized the importance of space and place in shaping urban life.