Gwen van Eijk: Unequal networks, spatial segregation, relationships and inequality in the city

Abstract

Book Review. Unequal networks ties together two strands of research: relational sociology and urban geography. Van Eijk addresses the question whether and how neighborhood composition affects the formation of personal networks. As such, this dissertation contributes to a growing literature about the consequences of spatial segregation and the meaning of neighborhood in everyday life. In her case study, Van Eijk uses mixed methods to explore whether, how and for whom living in a resource-poor, resource-mixed or resource-rich neighborhood in Rotterdam matters for access to social resources. A survey based on the name-generator method for social capital was conducted to measure the degree of localness, resourcefulness and homogeneity of personal networks. This method confronts respondents with the exchange of information, advice or support with other people and then categorizes and places these others. Additional in-depth interviews provide insight in the origin and nature of local relations and in th