Spatial Inequalities in Barbados, West Indies

Abstract

After a brief introduction concerning spatial development theory, this paper presents a method for the identification, analysis and monitoring of spatial inequalities in developing countries. This is referred to as the semantic grid technique. It is also demonstrated how a simple form of non-parametric factor analysis can be employed to analyse the data obtained by use of the method. Its value as an appropriate, parsimonious and non-computer dependent approach is stressed. The method is illustrated by field research carried out in Barbados, West Indies. Subsequently, the evolution and present-day nature of spatial inequalities in Barbados are discussed using conventional, objective socio-economic indicators. By such means, the acuity of the semantic grid method is demonstrated. Finally, the theoretical grounding of the method in Personal Construct Theory is stressed, and it is shown how the approach dovetails with social-psychological aspects of the existence and perpetuation of regional inequalities and stereotypes, via the processes of cumulative causation and spatial polarization.