March 2019 Around The World Today Series 2 Episode 4 By Terry D
In Series 2, Episode 4 of Around the World Today, titled What Makes a City, Terry Davies is joined by guest Lee Ellery to explore the concept of cities and what defines them. Together, they reflect on their hometown of Swansea, which was granted city status 50 years ago, and use this as a springboard to examine how different cities develop distinct characteristics, cultures, and mindsets.
Ways To Listen
Terry and Lee begin by discussing Swansea's journey from a small industrial town to becoming a recognized city in 1969. They touch on the significance of city status, not only in terms of administrative recognition but also in how it shapes the identity of the people living there. They reminisce about the evolution of Swansea over the decades—its growth in terms of population, infrastructure, and cultural influence—and how the city has retained a sense of community despite its expansion.
Moving beyond Swansea, the episode explores various definitions of what makes a city. Terry and Lee examine factors such as size, governance, economy, and historical significance, and how these elements contribute to a place being designated as a city. They look at major global metropolises like New York, Tokyo, and London, contrasting them with smaller cities that, while less sprawling, are equally important in terms of culture, commerce, and regional influence.
The conversation then shifts to the mindset of a city—how the attitudes and values of a city’s residents shape its character. They discuss how urban environments foster innovation, diversity, and creativity, but can also present challenges such as inequality, congestion, and a loss of local identity in the face of global trends. They examine the role of urban planning, architecture, and public spaces in creating a sense of place and community within a city.
By the end of the episode, Terry and Lee agree that what truly makes a city is not just its physical or economic characteristics but the people who live there and the shared experiences that bind them together. The episode is both a personal reflection on Swansea and a broader look at how cities around the world form the backbone of modern civilization, shaping the way we live, work, and connect with one another.
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