Urban China amid globalization: spatial restructuring in Guangzhou in comparative perspective

摘要

Processes of global change are promoting urban restructuring around the world. Yet research on Chinese cities categorizes them as a separate "transitional" group. Negative reaction to the "convergence thesis" may have contributed to identifying Chinese cities as distinct. But despite the importance of local context in mediating global forces, the pervasiveness of globalization means that a comparative international perspective may be useful. Having established a theoretical framework, we introduce a three-stage model based on a Guangzhou case study. This allows us to distinguish distinctive features of Chinese urban restructuring, as well as emerging similarities between Chinese cities like Guangzhou and US cities like Los Angeles. We conclude with theoretical and policy implications, including the potential for experience with shared problems like sprawl and environmental degradation to inform policy in different contexts.