Inequality and Segregation: Theory and Measurement

Aim

After completion of the course, the student should at an advanced level be able to:

• explain the ideal properties of segregation and inequality measures
• distinguish different dimensions of segregation, identify measures associated with these dimensions, and evaluate their relevance for analysing segregation across different organizational units
• use computational methods to calculate common measures of inequality and segregation using empirical data and compare measures across places and times
• assess the relative contributions of various mechanisms implicated in inequality and segregation dynamics
• critically examine research on resource inequalities and various forms of segregation
• integrate theories of segregation and inequality and evaluate interrelationships between the two
• formulate research questions of relevance to contemporary research on segregation and inequality

Content

This course engages with classical and contemporary research on inequality and segregation. The first part of the course explores the concepts and principles of segregation and inequality measurement. Issues related to comparisons across places and times are discussed. During computer laboratories, measures of inequality and segregation are calculated using empirical data and compared. The second part of the course reviews, evaluates, and synthesizes theories positing generative mechanisms underpinning segregation and inequality dynamics. Finally, the connection between inequality and segregation is explored. Special attention is paid to computational methods and their explanatory role in segregation and inequality research.