Hi all,
I am currently writing my dissertation on the London riots in 2011 and was wondering if anyone would be able to offer their opinion/thoughts on my topic? Although, I do understand that many of you are probably very busy. My dissertation title, to be precise, states 'Were housing conditions a contributing factor to the London riots?'.
Whilst researching, I came across Space Syntax's spatial analysis of the location of the 2011 riots in comparison to where the rioters lived. From the findings it shows that in North London, 84% of verified incidents took place in local centres that are within a five minute walk of housing estates. In South London, 96% of incidents took place within a five minute walk of estates. When looking at estates being high-rise, where residents from a similar social class are living in close proximity to one another, with no outside space and socially deprived, could these poor housing conditions influence negative behaviour to occur?
Speculation and investigations have led to various attempts to try and explain why the London riots occurred. Blame has been attributed in many directions and I have chosen to look at housing, in particular. We already know that architecture and space can influence a person's behaviour. What inspired me to look at housing was Churchill's quote "We shape our buildings, and afterwards they shape us". I wanted to investigate whether there is truth in this statement. Could someone's housing environment influence their attitudes and behaviour, shaping them as a person? In relation to the riots, could these acquired attitudes and behaviours have an influence on individuals decision to participate or not?
I understand some of you may be extremely busy to respond, but it would be interesting to hear your opinion on whether you believe housing conditions were a contributing factor to the London riots?
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
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