Toward a Geography of Urban Politics: Chicago, a Case Study

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the findings of political scientists and sociologists upon urban politics, but several brief observations relevant to the present research are noteworthy. First, political scientists have become acutely aware of the shortcomings of viewing urban politics as the inefficiencies of city government and administration. Second, the elitist model formulated in the community power studies of sociologists has been criticized effectively by political scientists on both theoretical and methodological grounds. Third, although no single interpretation of urban politics is complete in itself, useful guide posts for research can be found in classic statements on the governmental process and group and urban politics. Although the interest of the urban geographer has been channeled into diverse approaches to the city, one important dimension—the political geography of the city—has remained grossly neglected. In terms of formal governmental structure, Chicago's 50 aldermen comprise the ruling force in the city's politics.