Davies, Jonathan S. and Imbroscio, David L. (2010) Introduction. In: Davies, Jonathan S. and Imbroscio, David L., (eds.) Critical Urban Studies: New Directions. G - Reference, Information and Interdisciplinary Subjects Series . Albany, NY : SUNY Press, pp. 1-8. ISBN 978-1-4384-3305-9

Abstract

The chapter first explores the rise of the ‘network orthodoxy’. It proceeds to develop a critique of the regime-theoretical conception of the ruling class, building on my earlier work (Davies, 2002) and arguing that the Marxist conception is both stronger and, in the context of a theory of systemic power, more dynamic. It next examines the position of the urban proletariat, largely ignored by regime theory, arguing that the basic class structure of society depicted by Marx remains intact and consequently that working-class led transformations remain possible. It then moves from the macro to the micro level of analysis, illustrating the importance of class for understanding the dysfunctional dynamics of networked urban governance in the UK. It then demonstrates how the approach can be applied comparatively in explaining similarities and differences between two different forms of networked governance, UK partnerships and US regimes. In conclusion, it is argued that a new wave of Marxist research in urban politics is long overdue.

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