The aim of the book is to examine the transformation of the city in the late 20th century and explore the ways in which city life is structured. The shift from modern-industrial to information/consumption-based 'post-modern' cities is traced through the text. The focus is not just on America and Europe but also explores cities in other parts of the world as city growth in the twenty first century will be predominantly outside of these regions.

Fragmenting Societies? addresses a number of key themes in the debate about the nature of contemporary capitalist society. David Thorns poses the question as to whether present changes are creating a more fragmented society. Through a comparative historical analysis of Australia, New Zealand and Britain he examines the restructuring of the workforce, the shifts towards more flexible work practices, rising unemployment, the growth of individualism, regional and local diversity, and the creation of new social formations. Thorns challenges both the more economistic versions of the New...