Urban Evolution: Studies in the Mathematical Ecology of Cities

This book develops a theory of inter- and intra-urban evolution as a branch of mathematical ecology and population dynamics. In recent years profound changes have been taking place in the methodology of dynamical analysis. These new ideas are encompassed by catastrophe and bifurcation theory, and nonlinear differential equations. The authors of this book show how one can attain an understanding of urban evolution by using these new methods. The topics which are covered include: the relative population and income levels of metropolitan areas, slum formation, gentrification, and suburbanization. Senior students at first-degree level and above taking courses in urban geography, planning, economics, demography, sociology, urban affairs, and public administration.