Published in 2003, Global Chicago is a compendium of essays by Chicago scholars, practitioners and journalists, which discuss the impact of globalization on Chicago. The objective of the book was to stimulate discussion, begin to quantify the nature and extent of the city's global activities, identify areas for further research, and raise awareness of the city's global assets and the potential that exists to leverage those assets for the benefit of all citizens of the region. 

The chapters of the book are organized in three broad areas:

Economic Globalization and the City

At its core, globalization is an economic phenomenon, empowered by the scientific revolution in telecommunications and travel, which is eroding borders and making speed, innovation and complexity central components of economic development. These chapters present an economic profile of the city today, focusing on how the city does business.

Socio-Cultural Impacts of Globalization on the City

The rise of multiculturalism and the tremendous influx of immigrants into the United States have greatly increased the number of hyphenated Americans. These chapters explore the development of Chicago's political and cultural identity, and the potential for linking local concerns to global ones. It also looks at the academic scene in Chicago and the wealth of intellectual talent and strong institutions that are part of global networks.

Politics and Globalization

As the distinctions between domestic and foreign affairs are reduced and the connections between economies, institutions, issues and people multiply, the ability of government at city, state and national levels to set the rules of engagement and influence outcomes has changed significantly. This section will look at the city of Chicago as a global leader.

The book was edited by Charles Madigan. The book is available in both hardbound and soft cover. To order a copy of this landmark publication, please click here.