Citation:
[Editor:] Abassiharofteh, Milad [Editor:] Baier, Jessica [Editor:] Göb, Angelina [Editor:] Thimm, Insa [Editor:] Eberth, Andreas [Editor:] Knaps, Falco [Editor:] Larjosto, Vilja [Editor:] Zebner, Fabiana [Title:] Spatial transformation: Processes, strategies, research design [ISBN:] 978-3-88838-109-6 [Series:] Forschungsberichte der ARL [No.:] 19 [Publisher:] Verlag der ARL [Place:] Hannover [Year:] 2022 [Pages:] 87-98
Abstract:
The positive impact of socio-cultural diversity on innovation and economic prosperity has been widely discussed. Yet, there is a lack of a clear quantitative indicator of sociocultural diversity. Most empirical works are limited to small case studies that follow various methods. This gap in the literature calls for a comprehensive measure whereby researchers could assess and compare diversity across cities and regions at the national level. Building on a unique database of registered associations (in German: eingetragene Vereine), this study provides a hierarchical categorization of associations based on their field of activities. Applying the Shannon entropy index, the sociocultural diversity of German regions is measured. The findings indicate a disparity between East and West Germany, reflecting the path-dependent nature of historical events. This article sets an agenda for future research.
