Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

The rapid growth of cities in today's world is mostly a positive development for
society.
Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Throughout much of human history, cities have been a major part of human culture.
Personally, there are both positive and negative developments resulting from the
growth of cities.

On the one hand, the growth of cities can mean better  job opportunities . The reason is
simple: as a city develops, there will be a shortage of skilled labor  in many sectors. In
this case, companies in big cities tend to lure talents with higher salaries . When job
seekers find high-paying jobs  in the city and the city has enough workforce , this is a
win-win situation . Moreover, the growth of cities can mean a higher standard of living ,
which relates to nicer living environments . One explanation is that the most advanced
architects and designers are largely based in major cities . These brilliant minds are
given chances and resources to shape the urban landscape  and build architecturally
innovative buildings  such as leisure, shopping, and housing complexes . This can meet
the needs of a growing population. In other words, city dwellers can  have access to
premium services, modern amenities, and efficient transport . The growth of cities
means improved life quality.

On the other hand, the growth of cities, however, can  have an eco-unfriendly impact .
London is a good case in point. In 1952, as the city continued to  industrialize ,
industries in different sectors were booming ; factories abounded  such as car, chemical,
and manufacturing plants. As a result, these factories  discharged a large number of
pollutants  ranging from industrial waste to air pollutants. Excessive emissions  rendered
London inhospitable to city dwellers  and resulted in appalling environmental
deterioration . It was not uncommon that London was enveloped in a thick cloud of
toxic smog . This event caused more than 4000 casualties as well as 150,000 hospital
visits. Research on smog has proven that it is highly dangerous for local residents to
inhale smog, because it can take a heavy toll on  people's health, even causing
respiratory disease. From this case, it is clear that urbanization is not necessarily
positive.