The Importance of Thinking In-Place with ‘Vulnerable’ Neighbourhoods for Policy Making

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Natasha Webster
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6289-2380
Esther Veen
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0436-0359
Sofi Johansson
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4536-0459

Abstract

Big data are increasingly being used to understand complex social and economic challenges. While there is much to be learned from such approaches, in-place data remain necessary for a multidimensional understanding of neighbourhoods, and for sustainable and socially just policies. Rather than reinforcing methodological divides, the argument we set forth in this paper is that multiple forms and strands of inquiry illuminate complexities of space, place and community. Decision makers should consider how and why they may privilege certain forms of data, and instead tap into diversified ways of knowing. We reflect on the challenges and opportunities of crafting in-place data as a relational process integral for decision makers and policymaking. To do so, we discuss two case studies in Sweden and The Netherlands that demonstrate the importance of widening the scope of knowledge, and a willingness to decentre singularity and homogenous definitions of community and place.

Article Details

Section
Articles (refereed)
Author Biographies

Natasha Webster, Örebro University; Stockholm University, Sweden

Natasha Webster is Associate Professor at the Department of Human Geography at Örebro University, Sweden. As a feminist geographer, she explores emotions and affect in the neighbourhood and neighbourly relations. 

Esther Veen, Aeres University of Applied Sciences, Almere, Netherlands

Esther Veen is an applied professor of Urban Food Issues at Aeres University of Applied Sciences, Almere, the Netherlands. Using a practice theoretical approach, her research group focuses on how to make food routines more healthy, sustainable, and appropriate.

Sofi Johansson, Stockholm University, Sweden

Sofi Johansson is a PhD student at the department of human geography, Stockholm University, Sweden. She focuses on everyday life in a neighbourhood using emotional geographical approach to research how residents navigate safety, belonging and contest top-down imaginaries.