Globalization and Residential Segregation by Race

Abstract

The United States has long been characterized by racial segregation in residence. As the country moves into a period of increasing global interaction, these questions might be posed: Will globalization effect change in U.S. residence patterns by race? If so, how? If not, why not? To consider these questions, we briefly review segregation in the United States and present data for eight metropolitan areas to illustrate the extent of residential segregation. Next, we examine four leading conceptions of globalization and consider whether these suggest ways in which globalization may affect residential segregation in the United States. We conclude that globalization falls low on a long list of factors related to residential segregation. In particular, we argue that desegregation would require deliberate steps in domestic public policy.