Journal Article

The Urban System and Social Patterns in Iranian Cities

Clark, Brian D., Costello, Vincent

1973

Overview

Theories concerning the structure of cities in the developing world have only recently been formulated, and many of these theories are broad generalizations which may not necessarily be applicable in individual countries. The evolution of social patterns in Iranian cities is briefly examined and the dimensions of Iran's city system are analysed using multivariate techniques. It is postulated that the cities may be affected by social, economic and demographic changes operating at all levels in the urban hierarchy and that their varied internal response to change may be related to the major dimensions of social difference between them. The various processes influencing the contemporary social patterns in cities are analysed. The evidence suggests that social polarization in cities is now very marked, the dual centres in several of the largest being an extreme form of this continuing trend. Three cities, Aran/Bidgol, Kashan and Kermanshah ranging in size from 23 265 to 187 930 and having different scores in the factor analysis, are evaluated in the light of these processes to show the similarities and contrasts in their social patterns. Many of the generalizations postulated by several authors concerning density gradients and residential areas of different income groups are not applicable to Iran.

• Publisher: Institute of British Geographers
• Subject: Cities / City districts / City planning / Houses / Housing / Population density / Social evolution / Suburbs / Towns / Urban areas