Theses on Metropolisation

Abstract

This chapter introduces the concept of metropolisation, a framework to describe and understand the dynamics of territories undergoing extensive urbanisation. Metropolisation is defined as the transformation of fragmented urbanised areas into coherent and consolidated urban regions through the effects of long-term and intertwined processes of spatial, functional, institutional, and symbolic integration. The metropolisation story is told through ten theses formulated as open-ended discussion points. Individually, the theses aim to provoke debate and inspire further explorations in research and education. Together, they uncover the novel conceptual transformations, real-world mechanisms, and policy and planning implications of the processes of metropolitan integration.