Spatial Inequality

Spatial inequality refers to the uneven distribution of services, resources, and other essential amenities with regard to the location or area. Some communities have access to an immense range of resources and services due to their association with specific aspects that make up a society, and then there are others that do not have the same privilege in the same society. Spatial inequality is attributed to many aspects like race, culture, religion, and economies of agglomeration (Venables). Disadvantaged areas are likely to remain in that state unless vital resources and services are introduced to ensure that the livelihoods of the residents are elevated. The effects of spatial inequality are adverse, and many have to strive extra hard to attain the success that is enjoyed by other people from other privileged communities.

My personal experiences have been shaped, partly, by spatial inequality that exists in the community that I come from. Urban areas are notorious for spatial inequality, and my city is no different from some areas enjoying all the amenities that make better living conditions while others are forced to scrape by to make a decent living. The setup of the city is instrumental in elevating spatial inequality because the best hospitals and other amenities are located close to the areas that are rather expensive to live. The commute to get better health care is always disheartening. The wait and cost of getting to some of these hospitals might make an individual consider other alternatives that might not be safe medically. I have some health conditions that require regular check-ups, and I have tried the hospitals that are close to my area with dismal results. The hospital that I can get sufficient services is in the suburbs, which is normally a very costly commute. The experience is normally stressful, but I am forced to do it constantly because without the check-ups it could be fatal.

Similarly, the schools in my area are under-funded thus, they are curbed with various problems like indiscipline and criminal elements. These problems are caused by the little supervision that is conducted by the administration. It is possible to get a decent education from the school but many distractions might be influential to the students. The library and classrooms are normally in dilapidated conditions which make learning hard. The introduction of decent infrastructure to the schools can elevate the lives of the residents in my area. Many teachers are wary of teaching in schools because they are afraid of their lives and the students as well. With these, the schools do not attract the best teachers out there thus many children in my area do not graduate from high school.

Conclusively, spatial inequality is devastating for some communities because the people living in these areas are forced to endure some conditions that can be considered inhumane in affluent regions. Access to opportunities that can elevate people’s lives is not easy for some of these communities thus poverty is likely to sprout and grow deep roots within the community. The introduction of vital amenities like healthcare centers, decent education facilities, and other services can help to better the living conditions in these areas. These changes are normally made through inclusive governance that is aimed at providing equality of the people despite of race, religion, or culture.

Bibliography

Venables, Anthony L. Spatial Inequality and Development. 2003. 24 May 2020 <https://www.wider.unu.edu/publication/spatial-inequality-and-development-0>.