Elective segregation

Date and country of first publication

2013
Spain

Definition

Elective segregation refers to the intentional separation of individuals or groups based on certain characteristics or preferences. Unlike mandatory segregation, elective segregation is a voluntary choice made by individuals or groups to separate themselves from others who are different from them. This separation can be based on various factors such as race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, or personal preferences.

In some cases, people may choose elective segregation to be among others who share similar backgrounds, beliefs, or lifestyles. This can be seen in communities or neighborhoods where individuals voluntarily choose to live among others who belong to the same racial or ethnic group, or who share similar religious beliefs.

Elective segregation can also occur in education, where individuals or parents may choose to enroll in schools or programs that align with their preferences. For example, some parents may choose to send their children to private schools with a specific religious affiliation or to schools that offer specialized academic programs.

While elective segregation is a personal choice, it can have social and cultural implications. It can contribute to the creation of homogeneous communities or groups, thereby limiting opportunities for diverse interactions and experiences. This can reinforce stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination among different groups.

It is important to note that elective segregation is different from forced or institutionalized segregation, which is mandated by laws or policies. Mandatory segregation, such as historical racial segregation in the United States, was legally enforced and resulted in systemic discrimination and inequality.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Further reading

Andrew B.; Watt D.C.; Gillespie C.; Chapel H. (1987) "A study of genetic linkage in schizophrenia", Psychological Medicine, 17(2), pp. 363-370. . DOI: 10.1017/S0033291700024910

Purkait B. (2006) "Grain size distribution patterns of a point bar system in the Usri River, India", Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 31(6), pp. 682-702. . DOI: 10.1002/esp.1290

Fuentes F.J.M.; Andreotti A.; Le Galès P. (2013) "Controlling the Urban Fabric: The Complex Game of Distance and Proximity in European Upper Middle Class Residential Strategies", International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 37(2), pp. 576-597. . DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-2427.2012.01177.x

Abel M.; Bäuml K.-H.T. (2014) "The roles of delay and retroactive interference in retrieval induced forgetting", Memory and Cognition, 42(1), pp. 141-150. . DOI: 10.3758/s13421-013-0347-0

Done E.J.; Andrews M.J. (2020) "How inclusion became exclusion: policy, teachers and inclusive education", Journal of Education Policy, 35(4), pp. 447-464. Routledge. DOI: 10.1080/02680939.2018.1552763