6.1 The Origin and Influences of Urbanization

Development of Cities

Central Place Theory

• Hexagonal shapes
• A series of hexagons, representing the vertices of equilateral triangles, evenly distribute the connection of consumers. The shape represents the assumption that consumers will visit the most nearby place offering a good. Thus, it is a good compromise between circles and squares.
• The Theory Assumes that there are NO:
• Topographic Barriers (mountains, river, etc.)
• Differences in Farm Productivity
• Different Dispersion of Rural Population


Source: Penn State Geography Department

2 Urban Settlement Theories

1. Settlements originated in Mesopotamia: part of Fertile Crescent in Southwest Asia
1. Diffused West to Egypt, East to China, and to South India’s Indus Valley
2. Settlements originated independently in 4 hearths
1. Southwest Asia
2. Egypt
3. China
4. South India

Rural vs. Urban Settlements 

• Louis Wirth stated that the difference between rural and urban settlements depends on the density of human-created structures.
• Rural Settlements:
  • Small Size
  • Low Density
  • Socially Homogeneous Populations
• Urban Settlements:
  • Large Size
  • High Density
  • Socially Heterogeneous Populations

Site vs Situation

Site	Situation
Absolute Location, A City's Physical Characteristics Chosen for Trade, Defense, or Religion, Geographic Surroundings of a City	Relative Location of a City, A City's "Role" in the System of the World