How would you improve the city of Philadelphia?

Why isn't Philadelphia considered a Global City?

• I am curious as to why Philadelphia isn't considered a global city when all the requirements of what Global cities entail are within the sphere that makes up Philadelphia. Philadelphia has a mass transit system, entertainment venues, some of the best restuarants in the world, all the major sports teams and sports complexes, diversity and mutliculturalism abounds throughout the city. I mean I can go on and on about the benefits of why Philly is a world class city. The city also has two airports, one is an international airport and the other deals with domestic and charter flights. The Philadelphia region has about 5 million+ inhabitants and the city itself is ranked 4th or 5th in the nation. In fact, there are cities within the US that are underneath Philadelphia (as far as population, attractions and other miscellaneous things), that are considered global or world cities and have less amenities than Philly.

• Answer:

  An intriguing question, I didn't really know what the term "Global City" meant, so had a look at Wikipedia for an explanation. The following is copied directly from the article I read: The most complex of these entities is the "global city", whereby the linkages binding a city have a direct and tangible effect on global affairs through more than just socio-economic means, with influence in terms of culture, or politics. I don't think Philly has a direct effect on the affairs of the world. Unlike say, Washington DC and NYC where the UN and Wall Street is located. It certainly qualifies in many of the "characteristics" of a global city however. I will not copy the other requirements here (far too many and too long) but this is the link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_city#General_characteristics I hope you take the time to read it, it is very interesting. You are rightfully proud of your beautiful and historic city, it being the City of Brotherly Love and the first capital. Don't be too worried over the fact it is not considered a "Global City". Many people wouldn't even know that!