Understanding Global City: Sassen's Definition of Social Polarization

In recent years, the concept of global city has gained significant attention among urban scholars and policymakers. Saskia Sassen, a renowned sociologist, has been at the forefront of studying these phenomena and defining the characteristics that set them apart from other types of cities. In her work, Sassen focuses on social polarization as a key aspect of global city development. But what exactly does she mean by this term?

In simple terms, Sassen defines social polarization as the widening gap between the top and bottom in the occupational hierarchy. This means that as cities become more globalized, there is an increasing divide between those who hold high-paying jobs with good benefits and those who struggle to make ends meet. In her 2003 article, Sassen argues that this phenomenon occurs as a result of economic segregation and the welfare policy system, which traps low-income individuals in their current circumstances.

However, some critics argue that Sassen's definition is too narrow and fails to consider other forms of income polarization. According to another article, income polarization can be divided into relative and absolute income polarization. While Sassen's thesis focuses on the relative aspect, it does not provide a clear explanation of what absolute income polarization entails.

In Hong Kong, which is often regarded as a global city, there are concerns about income inequality despite the lack of social polarization in the classical sense. Research has shown that low-skilled and less-educated workers face significant challenges in moving up the occupational ladder due to economic segregation and limited job opportunities.

To understand this phenomenon better, it is essential to consider Esping-Andersen's discussion of a post-industrial stratification order. This framework suggests that social inequality arises from the disappearance of traditional industries and the rise of new sectors characterized by low-skilled, low-wage work. In this context, Sassen's definition of social polarization becomes more nuanced, highlighting the need to address income inequality and occupational polarization in global cities.

In conclusion, Sassen's definition of social polarization as a widening gap between the top and bottom in the occupational hierarchy is an important concept for understanding the challenges faced by global cities. While some critics argue that this definition is too narrow, it provides a useful starting point for exploring the complex issues of income inequality and occupational polarization in these cities. As urban scholars and policymakers continue to grapple with these challenges, Sassen's work remains an essential reference point for developing effective strategies to address social polarization and promote more equitable outcomes.

Global city sassen definition