In Simmel’s view urbanization had both positive and negative effects (Allan, 2007). The overload of stimuli prompts a shutting off (a desensitized state) from the environment and more importantly a detachment from those persons around us in order for us to be able not just to cope with the bombardment to our senses but maybe even to be able to lead productive lives. This detachment, according to various theorists including Durkheim and Simmel, is bound to create an anomic state which can lead to conflict. In your view what forces, institutions, behaviors, innovations etc. are stepping up to counteract the ills that this urbanization (anomie) might bring?
Allan,K. 2007. The Social Lens: An Invitation to Social and Sociological Theory.
Thousand Oaks, CA: Pine Forge Press.
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This is a really interesting question. At UTEP, I think the learning community system, where they have first-year students take 2 or 3 classes together would be an example.
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