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Every city is full of strangers. In a biographical sense, city
dwellers are strangers to one another because they are not familiar with each
other's backgrounds, values, and views regarding acceptable behavior. This lack
of personal acquaintance emphasizes individuality and prevents the formation of
a cohesive community. As a result, managing strangers and newcomers is a
critical issue for local authorities and citizens. The control mechanism has
taken different forms of manifestation since the 18th century, and the United
States is an excellent example to track these changes.
The first elements of social control on newcomers were violent and public,
resulting in death for the condemned. Deviant behavior, such as murder, theft,
and violence, was punished severely. As cities grew and society developed,
violence became a thing of the past, and law enforcement agencies replaced it.
The next stage was the formation of enclaves according to racial, religious, and
ethnic principles. This led to better integration of newcomers into the city's
life and facilitated finding help and support from people close in spirit.
However, the formation of municipalities to control these enclaves caused
discontent among the indigenous population, leading to electoral law reforms
restricting the enclaves' participation in political life.
The formation of "third places" is the next social control mechanism. These
places, such as parks, public spaces, or shopping malls, allow citizens to
interact informally with each other and negotiate mutual assistance in
emergencies. They help newcomers integrate into the indigenous population's life
and eliminate discrimination. The model of suburbs, initially developed to
relieve the urban center and reduce social tension, has become more accessible
to a wide range of citizens, making life in remote areas less exclusive. As a
result, suburbs have become a bridge between the indigenous population and
newcomers, forming one big "third place" where citizens enjoy spending time
talking and working together.
In conclusion, the evolution of social control mechanisms in urban areas has
been significant. From violent punishment to informal negotiation in "third
places," the focus has shifted to community building and inclusivity. The
formation of suburbs as a "third place" has helped break down barriers between
different groups of people and fostered a sense of community. However, it is
crucial to remember that social control mechanisms are not without their
challenges, and a balance between formal and informal control mechanisms is
necessary for a stable and inclusive society. |
