The application of a topological clustering technique to capture forms and dynamics of deprivation in contemporary Switzerland

Abstract

This paper proposes the application of an innovative technique of clustering and projection—the Self-Organizing Map—in order to identify multidimensional patterns of deprivation in contemporary Switzerland. Starting from a rich set of non-monetary indicators from the Swiss Household Panel, a topological map has been extrapolated. This map is composed of 32 micro-clusters that are subsequently grouped into four macro-clusters, each of which expresses a specific profile. The analysis carried out indicates that about one out of two individuals living in Switzerland enjoy a state of multidimensional well-being, one in three shows signs of slight vulnerability, one in five is in a condition of consistent vulnerability and one in twenty is deprived. After having outlined the space of multidimensional patterns, the movements of these individuals have been reconstructed from 1999 to 2012 and the role of “true path dependence’ have been measured.