How Globalization Isolates Struggling Cities

The government and businesses of Chicago probably have more to do with cities in Germany or Japan than Indianapolis, the capital city of a neighboring state about 300 kilometers away, as suggested by Richard Longworth in his book “Caught in the Middle: America’s Heartland in the Age of Globalism.” And communities increasingly embrace such long-distance connections: “In the age of globalization, cities and states would rather build bridges to the world than to the town next door,” argues Aaron M. Renn in Governing magazine. An economic and demographic divide between urban and rural communities has become more pronounced even in developed nations like the United States. Struggling communities in rural areas should cooperate, and first working on building local ties, rather than compete. Policies can emphasize civic improvement, education and strong local connections. Renn concludes, “Building stronger links to their neighbors that are connected is critical” and a “potential on-ramp to globalization.” – YaleGlobal