A global index for measuring socio-spatial segregation versus integration

Abstract

The article suggests a global index that measures segregation/integration in social space on one continuum. We assume that social space is the context of human agency, stimulating some modes of action and turning down other modes of action, but still leaving a room for active agency. Accordingly, we introduce the concept of socio-spatial lifestyle and we define segregation/integration as one aspect of socio-spatial lifestyle. The index is multidimensional relating to residential and activity spaces and to the sources of recruiting social, cultural and emotional capitals in either intra or inter ethnic sources.A case study of Arabs in Israel is tested showing the relatively high segregation of Arabs in terms of accumulating social capital even when Arabs commute to Jewish spaces and live in Jewish neighborhoods or mixed cities.