Ethnoreligious territoriality segregation

Date and country of first publication

2014
United Kingdom

Definition

Ethnoreligious territoriality segregation refers to the spatial separation or clustering of ethnic or religious groups within a geographic area. It involves the tendency of these groups to inhabit specific neighborhoods, regions, or territories, often based on shared cultural, ethnic, or religious affiliations. This phenomenon can be observed in various contexts and can have significant social, cultural, and political implications.

Key aspects of ethnoreligious territoriality segregation include:

1. Spatial Concentration: Certain neighborhoods or areas become predominantly inhabited by members of a particular ethnic or religious group. This concentration may occur voluntarily, due to preferences for living near others who share similar cultural backgrounds, or involuntarily, due to historical segregation or discrimination.

2. Cultural Cohesion: Within these segregated areas, there tends to be a higher degree of cultural cohesion among residents. Shared traditions, languages, religious practices, and social norms are often reinforced and preserved within these communities.

3. Social Boundaries: Ethnoreligious segregation can create social boundaries between different groups. Interaction between groups may be limited, leading to decreased social integration and potential misunderstandings or tensions.

4. Political and Economic Implications: The spatial segregation of ethnic or religious groups can influence political dynamics and resource distribution within a region. It may impact access to educational opportunities, economic development, and government services based on geographic location.

5. Impact on Identity: Living in ethnoreligiously segregated areas can influence individual and group identities, reinforcing a sense of belonging and solidarity within the community while potentially contributing to stereotypes or perceptions from outside groups.

Overall, ethnoreligious territoriality segregation reflects the complex interplay between geography, culture, identity, and social dynamics within societies. It highlights how spatial patterns of settlement can both reflect and perpetuate divisions among different ethnic or religious groups.

Ethnoreligious territoriality segregation appears in the following literature

McCord M., Davis P.T., Haran M., McIlhatton D., McCord J. (2014). Understanding rental prices in the UK: A comparative application of spatial modelling approaches. International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, 7(1), 98-128. Emerald Group Publishing Ltd..https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHMA-09-2012-0043