Urban Society: Meaning and Definition
Urban Society
The term urban simply refers to the region or area which is densely populated and
possesses the characteristics of man-made surroundings. The people residing in
such areas are engaged in trade, commerce or services. In this settlement, there is
high-scale industrialization that results in better employment opportunities. A
complex social life is found in which people of different races, professions, castes
and religions live together. The urban settlement is not confined to the cities only,
but towns and suburbs (suburban areas) are also included in it.
Definition of Urban Society
1. According to Louis Mumford urban society is “a melting pot of various
cultures of the world due to railroad, industries and slums.”
2. Louis Wirth, an American Sociologist, says that urban society is “a place
designed gracefully with different zones with definite purposes.”
Characteristics of Urban Society
Characteristics of Urban Society
The following are the characteristics of urban areas:
1. Dense Settlement Pattern: In urban societies, houses are constructed contiguous
to each other due to a shortage of land. Millions of populations reside within a
few kilometres of the area, showing a high population density.
2. Palatial Houses: Houses are made using brick, stone, marble and other modern
infrastructure. Many palatial houses can be seen in these societies costing
millions of rupees.
3. Urban Facilities: Urban facilities like electricity, gas, telephone, drinking water
system, mobile phones, fax, internet, road networks, airports, shopping malls
and commercial centres etc., are available in urban society.
4. Formal Social Interaction: Interaction among the members of society is
generally of a formal type. Secondary groups and organizations are important
and play an important role in the need fulfillment.
5. Formal Group Life: Group life in this society is also of a formal type. The
formation of a group is based on the need and common interests. Members get
close to each other to fulfill their needs.
6. Division of Labor: Very clear and complex division of labour is found in every
walk of life. People are trained for their job and functions according to the needs
of the people. Shortage of houses due to the shortage of land and population
pressure, there is always a shortage of houses for the people of this society.
7. Social Institutions and Social Organizations: Basic social institutions and their
working organizations are found fulfilling the very needs of the people.
8. Social Change: A high rate of social change is found. People of this society
appreciate social change and are prone to adopt it rapidly.
9. Anonymity: Due to high population pressure, fast life, and social differentiation,
a high degree of anonymity is found to cause crime and violence.
10. High Standard of Living: Due to the availability of civic facilities, industry and
business activities, a high standard of living is found compared with rural
society.
Urban societies have dense settlements, modern infrastructure, formal social
interactions, clear labour division, and advanced facilities. These factors
accelerate social change but also create anonymity and challenges like crime and
violence.
Problems of Urban Society
Problems of Urban Society
Urban problems are endless. Several crucial problems faced by urban society are:
1. Overcrowding: Overpopulation leads to limited space, resulting in high
population density in urban areas.
2. Housing Shortage: Urbanization causes a scarcity of affordable housing due to
factors like lack of resources and transportation.
3. Slums and Squatter Settlements: Unchecked urban growth leads to the spread
of slums due to inadequate housing options for the poor.
4. Unemployment: Urban unemployment, driven by rural-urban migration, poses
a significant challenge in sustaining livelihoods.
5. Transportation Issues: Increasing urbanization causes traffic congestion and
complex transportation problems.
6. Water Supply and Sewerage: Growing cities face challenges in providing
adequate water and sewage facilities.
7. Power Shortages: Urban areas struggle with electricity shortages due to
increased usage and insufficient generation.
8. Sanitation Problems: Maladministration and lack of motivation lead to poor
sanitation and garbage disposal in urban areas.
9. Problem of Urban Pollution: Rising urbanization results in environmental
contamination, including air, water and ground pollution.
Urban society challenges the quality of life, including overcrowding, housing
shortages, and pollution. Governments, communities, and organizations must
collaborate to ensure sustainable growth and improved living conditions.
