Urbanization at the expense of societal traditions and culture?
Cities have always been labeled as engine for growth. Primarily, because of the industrialization era. People started to move in to cities from rural areas and resultantly there has been a large influx in the urban area, which some would say is productive.
But the question that boggles my mind is that the rural areas have always been the custodian of orthodox and classical traditions and culture of a society. So, a huge amount of rural to urban migration might lead to loss of precious culture and societal fabric of a society.
There is a huge amount of difference in the fast-paced and individual-oriented urban society and the rural one. I understand the difference that every one wants to enjoy the basic amenities and perhaps the luxuries that come as a package with urban areas but I have seen a trend in people, especially in my immediate circle where people have signaled moving back to the villages.
Question is, how much the societal fabric of rural area is important for a society and how can we achieve a balance among the two?
Millicent Auma Otieno, 5 June 2012I concur with you saqib because you find that majority of industries especially in Kenya are based in the urban areas even those dealing in agricultural product hence i think if these industries can be constructed next to the raw material this can help reducing rural urban migration as majority can find employment next to their homes. Secondly the education system is design towards white collar jobs that are only found in urban areas hence if we can have more vocational trainings geared towars self employment and nurturing talents according to the students need opportunities can be enhanced hence struggling for the limited jobs in urban areas can totally be minimised.
Saqib Tanveer from Pakistan, 12 June 2012Thanks for seconding me.
Actually you have broadened the scope of the discussion. The point under debate is that urbanization is good because cities are the engine for growth, they synergize the production and also help in diversifying. But on a societal level, urbanization could be dangerous to the values of a society. Urban life does not have much to do with the orthodox traditions that are prevalent in rural areas. And unfortunately, the rising trend of urbanization can hamper the classic green life in rural areas.
Hope I made my point :)
Professor KK Pandey, 14 August 2012Yes, I also agree,in our process of urbanisation,we are loosing cultural values.We do not have mutual respect ,brotherhood and cohesiveness as found in old city areas and villages.This is a major challenge to develop city as a society rather than a jungle.