The course begins with an overview of the development of cities and the structural roots of urban problems. We then move to an examination of the growth and development of cities and some of the classical theories of the city. We next focus on the contemporary problems of the poor and minorities in urban areas. Then we turn to how these communities have worked to organize and overcome these structural forces to empower themselves and alter their opportunities. Throughout the course, we examine specific urban problems such as transportation and congestion, housing and urban decay, poverty, crime, and urban street life. The ways through which residents organize themselves, such as community based organizations and community development organizations, serve as a particular focus of the course.