Inside the City of Diversity

Description

This subject examines differences in diverse people’s experiences of urban life, the opportunities and challenges it offers them, and their ability to shape the city. We will examine how social differences such as class, gender, ethnicity, race, and disability have been understood in urban studies from varied theoretical perspectives, including liberalism, Marxism, feminism and postcolonialism. We will explore these themes with case studies from many cities around the world, with a particular interest in Melbourne, where students will undertake independent field research. Specific issues to be investigated include: the social and cultural lives of rich, poor, middle-class and gentrifying neighbourhoods; the negotiation of gender roles and relations in the private and public spheres of the city; intergenerational conflicts in urban housing and labour markets; inequalities in the spatial distribution of urban infrastructures such as roads, transport, education and health services; racial segregation and conflict; the displacement and marginalization of Aboriginal communities in Australian cities, and their activism. Students completing the subject will demonstrate in-depth understanding of how social inequalities develop and manifest in cities; but also, how cities can become places of resistance, inter-cultural encounter and transformation. Teaching Period: 27 July 2026 to 25 October 2026 Assessment Information: Description Timing Percentage Tutorial participation - (Attend and actively participate in at least 70% of tutorials) Students will be assessed by their tutor on their active contribution to tutorial discussions and activities, individually and as part of a group. From Week 1 to Week 12 10% Tutorial presentation. Each student undertakes one presentation in a pair. The week for the presentation is arranged in Week 2 tutorials 5 minutes From Week 3 to Week 12 5% Tutorial paper 500 words Week 4 15% Research essay. In preparing for the essay, students will be required to undertake a 1-hour walk in Melbourne CBD in pairs. 1000 words Week 8 30% Take-home examination for which the questions will be distributed in the last lecture and will be due three weeks after that date. 1500 words During the examination period 40%