Saskia Sassen

Definition

Saskia Sassen is a renowned sociologist and global studies scholar best known for her work on globalization, migration, and the dynamics of urban spaces. Her research highlights how global cities function as nodes in the international economy, emphasizing the social and economic implications of migration on these urban centers and the societies that surround them.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sassen argues that globalization creates a new class of global cities that attract migrants seeking economic opportunities and better living conditions.
2. Her work has shown that migration contributes to the diversity of urban environments but also presents challenges related to integration and social cohesion.
3. Sassen identifies the roles of migrants as both laborers and entrepreneurs, highlighting their contributions to local economies and urban development.
4. She emphasizes that global cities often face issues such as inequality and gentrification as a result of migration patterns.
5. Sassen's research has influenced policies aimed at managing migration and its impacts on urban infrastructure and social services.

Review Questions

• How does Saskia Sassen's concept of global cities relate to the dynamics of migration in contemporary society?
  • Saskia Sassen's concept of global cities illustrates how these urban centers serve as crucial destinations for migrants seeking opportunities. Global cities attract diverse populations due to their economic prospects, which influences both their growth and cultural landscape. The influx of migrants leads to new social dynamics, shaping the city's identity while also presenting challenges such as integration and housing shortages.
• In what ways does Sassen's work inform our understanding of the relationship between migration and urban inequality?
  • Sassen's work sheds light on how migration contributes to urban inequality by creating disparities between different socio-economic groups. As migrants often fill low-wage jobs while facing barriers to upward mobility, they can exacerbate existing inequalities in access to housing, education, and social services. Additionally, her analysis highlights how gentrification can displace lower-income communities, further complicating the urban landscape shaped by migration.
• Evaluate the impact of Saskia Sassen's theories on current policies regarding migration and urban development.
  • Saskia Sassen's theories have significantly influenced contemporary policies regarding migration and urban development by emphasizing the need for inclusive strategies that address the realities faced by migrants in global cities. Policymakers increasingly recognize the importance of integrating migrant populations into urban planning initiatives to foster social cohesion and economic growth. By advocating for policies that support access to resources, such as education and healthcare for migrants, her work encourages a more holistic approach to managing the challenges associated with globalization and migration.

Related terms

Globalization: The process through which businesses, cultures, and economies develop international influence or operate on an international scale.

Global Cities: Major urban centers that play a significant role in the global economy, characterized by their impact on trade, finance, and cultural exchange.

Transnationalism:

The process by which immigrants maintain connections to their home countries while integrating into the host society, influencing social, economic, and cultural dynamics in both places.