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Abstract
The effectiveness of the Soviet policy aimed at limiting the growth of large cities in the USSR is tested from various perspectives, based chiefly on the most recent censuses of 1959, 1970, and 1979. Results suggest that the policy has not yet been too successful. The number and relative importance of large cities continue to increase substantially. Constant groups of large cities in general and those where industrial investment was to be specifically restricted as of the late 1950s continue to grow roughly as rapidly as other towns. Maximum population limits, either "optimum" or otherwise, have generally been exceeded. Regional, metropolitan, and international perspectives further suggest a lack of success. Continued substantial concentration of industrial investment and governmental and educational activities in and appreciable migration to the largest cities have been especially influential factors, despite attempts to limit industry and migration. Some elements of effectiveness and comparisons with the United States are also considered.
