ABSTRACT
A review of urban studies in 1982 reveals the wide spread of disciplines engaged in the analysis of the processes at work in urban areas. Without attempting to define urban studies, a developed interest in ‘the urban’ is now apparent in anthropology, economics, geography, history, politics and sociology as well as the sphere of professional activity, city planning. This suggests the importance given to an understanding of the ways social processes operate in cities and the increasing pressure for social sciences to address ‘urban’ problems. Often these appear deceptively simple but, as will be apparent through the pages of this volume, the processes at work in urban areas often defy any quick interpretations or solutions. We still have much to learn both about contemporary issues and processes and their historical antecedents.
