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Volume 39, Issue 4 (2024)
GeoRes 2024, 39(4): 481-491 |
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Received: 2024/10/14 | Accepted: 2025/02/1 | Published: 2025/02/5
Received: 2024/10/14 | Accepted: 2025/02/1 | Published: 2025/02/5
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Rakhshmah R, Zakerhaghighi K, Peyvastehgar Y. Identifying Key Factors in the Physical Development of Cities with a Focus on Spatial Justice, Yasuj City. GeoRes 2024; 39 (4) :481-491
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1- Department of Urban Planning, Ahvaz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran
2- Department of Urban Planning, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
3- Departement auf Urban Planning and Architecture, Yasouj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yasouj, Iran
2- Department of Urban Planning, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
3- Departement auf Urban Planning and Architecture, Yasouj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yasouj, Iran
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Background
This study examines the physical development of Yasuj from the perspective of spatial justice. Unequal urban growth and unfair distribution of infrastructure are among the issues that can lead to social and spatial disparities in this city.
Previous Studies
In recent decades, cities have experienced physical-spatial, social, and economic transformations due to population growth and capitalism. Unbalanced spatial development has resulted in inequalities in the distribution of urban services and facilities, exacerbating challenges such as neighborhood segregation, informal settlements, and poverty [Annamoradnejad & Mohammadi Kazemabadi, 2023]. Approaches such as spatial and social justice have been proposed to mitigate these inequalities [Ahn & Juraev, 2024]. In Iran, unbalanced urban development has led to migration and widening regional disparities [Boyaj et al., 2024]. Yasuj is an example of such spatial inequality. Development should lead to poverty reduction and reduced inequality [Briko & Feldblyum, 2024]. Spatial justice emphasizes the fair distribution of resources [Williams, 2018]. Studies indicate that the concentration of urban amenities in central areas has exacerbated inequalities [Sheikhi & Abbasi, 2023; Mirzabeigi et al., 2023].
Aim(s)
The primary objective of this study was to analyze the pattern of physical development in Yasuj and assessed it from a spatial justice perspective.
Research Type
This study is descriptive-analytical, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the physical development of Yasuj.
Research Society Place and Time
The research population included the urban areas of Yasuj in 2024.
Sampling Method and Number
To determine the sample size, Cochran's formula was used, based on which a sample size of 383 individuals was calculated. However, a total of 383 individuals were surveyed using simple random and convenience sampling methods.
Used Devices & Materials
For data collection, a researcher-developed questionnaire was used, designed with a five-point Likert scale. To ensure the reliability of the instrument, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated, which was above 0.7, indicating satisfactory reliability.
In the first phase, the DEMATEL technique was employed to assess the causal relationships between spatial justice criteria. In the second phase, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to identify key factors in the physical development of cities with a focus on spatial justice.
Findings by Text
In this study, the DEMATEL method was used to analyze the relationships between spatial justice criteria. The results indicated that some variables had a greater impact on others and played a more significant role in the network of relationships. The parameters "Emphasis on Developing Affordable Public Transport" (D+R=5.15) and "Empowerment with Emphasis on Human Capabilities" (D+R=4.43) had the highest influence and were identified as key factors in enhancing spatial justice. Additionally, "Social Cohesion" (D+R=4.02) was also of great importance (Table 1). On the other hand, the parameters of "Support for Disadvantaged Groups," "Access to Life Opportunities," and "Human Empowerment" showed the highest degree of dependency
Table 1) Factor Analysis Using the DEMATEL Method
To determine the correlation between the criteria, Cronbach’s reliability test was used, yielding a value of 0.847, indicating a suitable reliability for the questionnaire (Table 2). This value confirms that the examined variables have strong internal consistency.
Table 2) Extracted Component Scores (with an Initial Score of 1.000)
In the factor analysis stage, data were first normalized, and research indices were extracted using exploratory factor analysis. The KMO criterion was above 0.6, confirming the suitability of the data for analysis. Bartlett’s sphericity test also showed a significance level of 0.0001, indicating appropriate correlations among the variables (Table 3). Two main factors in urban physical-spatial development were identified, with the first factor explaining 15.87% of the variance and the second factor explaining 1.094% (Table 3).
Table 3) Extracted Factors and Their Percentage of Variance Changes
The results of the eigenvalue test showed that these two factors explained the majority of changes (Table 4). Moreover, the correlation test between these factors revealed a positive correlation between the first factor (social justice and equality) and the second factor (social support), which was statistically significant (Table 4)
Table 4) Correlation Coefficients Matrix Between Extracted Factors
In the rotated matrix, parameters such as "Emphasis on Affordable Public Transport," "Social Cohesion," "Human Empowerment," and "Citizen Participation" were grouped under the first factor, while "Support for Disadvantaged Groups" and "Income Redistribution" were associated with the second factor (Table 5).
Table 5) Rotated Factors and Their Factor Loadings (Rotated Component Matrixa)
These findings suggest that the development of public transportation, social cohesion, and human empowerment are key factors in promoting spatial justice in cities. Additionally, supporting disadvantaged groups and redistributing income should be given more attention to enhance social justice.
Main Comparisons to Similar Studies
Previous studies have each examined different aspects of spatial justice. The study by Sheikhi & Abbasi (2023) focused on the distribution of urban services, whereas the present research analyzed the impact of social cohesion (4.02 on spatial justice. The study by Mirzabeigi et al. (2023) prioritizes urban areas using the VIKOR model, whereas this study identified key factors using the DEMATEL technique and factor analysis. The study by Asadi et al. (2023) examines overall urban development indices, whereas this study focused on key variables such as "Affordable Public Transport" (5.15) and "Human Empowerment" (4.43). The study by Fasihi et al. (2020)has analyzed the distribution of urban parks, whereas the present research adopted a network analysis approach to spatial justice. The studies by Rostaei & Alizadeh (2020), Kashani et al. (2021), and Ghouchani et al. (2023) also focused on different dimensions of spatial justice. The findings of this research align with previous studies, confirming the impact of spatial justice on urban development [Feitosa et al., 2024].
Suggestions
Urban development strategies should focus on reducing spatial inequalities by revising existing policies, improving the distribution of infrastructure and public services in underserved areas, and leveraging new technologies like GIS to enhance urban planning and decision-making processes.
Conclusion
Emphasis on the development of affordable public transportation has the highest impact on spatial justice, while redistribution of income and resources has a lower influence. Additionally, factors like an inclusive urban society for all and equal development and culture progressively gain significance. Key indicators such as income redistribution, support for marginalized groups, recognition of differences, fair ownership, cultural diversity, and social interactions play a crucial role in promoting equitable physical-spatial development and achieving spatial justice.
Acknowledgments: We sincerely appreciate the collaboration of experienced urban planners and city managers who supported us in this study.
Ethical Permission: The authors have no ethical concerns to report.
Conflict of Interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
Author Contributions: Rakhshmah R (First Author), Main Researcher (60%); Zakerhaghighi K (Second Author), Introduction Writer/Methodologist (20%); Peyvastehgar Y (Third Author), Statistical Analyst (20%).
Funding: This article is derived from a PhD dissertation titled "Explaining the Factors Influencing Urban Physical-Spatial Development Based on the Theoretical Framework of Spatial Justice (Case Study: Yasuj City)" under the supervision of Dr. Kianoush Zaker Haghighi and consultation of Dr. Peyvastegar. The research expenses were covered by the first author.
This study examines the physical development of Yasuj from the perspective of spatial justice. Unequal urban growth and unfair distribution of infrastructure are among the issues that can lead to social and spatial disparities in this city.
Previous Studies
In recent decades, cities have experienced physical-spatial, social, and economic transformations due to population growth and capitalism. Unbalanced spatial development has resulted in inequalities in the distribution of urban services and facilities, exacerbating challenges such as neighborhood segregation, informal settlements, and poverty [Annamoradnejad & Mohammadi Kazemabadi, 2023]. Approaches such as spatial and social justice have been proposed to mitigate these inequalities [Ahn & Juraev, 2024]. In Iran, unbalanced urban development has led to migration and widening regional disparities [Boyaj et al., 2024]. Yasuj is an example of such spatial inequality. Development should lead to poverty reduction and reduced inequality [Briko & Feldblyum, 2024]. Spatial justice emphasizes the fair distribution of resources [Williams, 2018]. Studies indicate that the concentration of urban amenities in central areas has exacerbated inequalities [Sheikhi & Abbasi, 2023; Mirzabeigi et al., 2023].
Aim(s)
The primary objective of this study was to analyze the pattern of physical development in Yasuj and assessed it from a spatial justice perspective.
Research Type
This study is descriptive-analytical, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the physical development of Yasuj.
Research Society Place and Time
The research population included the urban areas of Yasuj in 2024.
Sampling Method and Number
To determine the sample size, Cochran's formula was used, based on which a sample size of 383 individuals was calculated. However, a total of 383 individuals were surveyed using simple random and convenience sampling methods.
Used Devices & Materials
For data collection, a researcher-developed questionnaire was used, designed with a five-point Likert scale. To ensure the reliability of the instrument, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated, which was above 0.7, indicating satisfactory reliability.
In the first phase, the DEMATEL technique was employed to assess the causal relationships between spatial justice criteria. In the second phase, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to identify key factors in the physical development of cities with a focus on spatial justice.
Findings by Text
In this study, the DEMATEL method was used to analyze the relationships between spatial justice criteria. The results indicated that some variables had a greater impact on others and played a more significant role in the network of relationships. The parameters "Emphasis on Developing Affordable Public Transport" (D+R=5.15) and "Empowerment with Emphasis on Human Capabilities" (D+R=4.43) had the highest influence and were identified as key factors in enhancing spatial justice. Additionally, "Social Cohesion" (D+R=4.02) was also of great importance (Table 1). On the other hand, the parameters of "Support for Disadvantaged Groups," "Access to Life Opportunities," and "Human Empowerment" showed the highest degree of dependency
Table 1) Factor Analysis Using the DEMATEL Method
To determine the correlation between the criteria, Cronbach’s reliability test was used, yielding a value of 0.847, indicating a suitable reliability for the questionnaire (Table 2). This value confirms that the examined variables have strong internal consistency.
Table 2) Extracted Component Scores (with an Initial Score of 1.000)
In the factor analysis stage, data were first normalized, and research indices were extracted using exploratory factor analysis. The KMO criterion was above 0.6, confirming the suitability of the data for analysis. Bartlett’s sphericity test also showed a significance level of 0.0001, indicating appropriate correlations among the variables (Table 3). Two main factors in urban physical-spatial development were identified, with the first factor explaining 15.87% of the variance and the second factor explaining 1.094% (Table 3).
Table 3) Extracted Factors and Their Percentage of Variance Changes
The results of the eigenvalue test showed that these two factors explained the majority of changes (Table 4). Moreover, the correlation test between these factors revealed a positive correlation between the first factor (social justice and equality) and the second factor (social support), which was statistically significant (Table 4)
Table 4) Correlation Coefficients Matrix Between Extracted Factors
In the rotated matrix, parameters such as "Emphasis on Affordable Public Transport," "Social Cohesion," "Human Empowerment," and "Citizen Participation" were grouped under the first factor, while "Support for Disadvantaged Groups" and "Income Redistribution" were associated with the second factor (Table 5).
Table 5) Rotated Factors and Their Factor Loadings (Rotated Component Matrixa)
These findings suggest that the development of public transportation, social cohesion, and human empowerment are key factors in promoting spatial justice in cities. Additionally, supporting disadvantaged groups and redistributing income should be given more attention to enhance social justice.
Main Comparisons to Similar Studies
Previous studies have each examined different aspects of spatial justice. The study by Sheikhi & Abbasi (2023) focused on the distribution of urban services, whereas the present research analyzed the impact of social cohesion (4.02 on spatial justice. The study by Mirzabeigi et al. (2023) prioritizes urban areas using the VIKOR model, whereas this study identified key factors using the DEMATEL technique and factor analysis. The study by Asadi et al. (2023) examines overall urban development indices, whereas this study focused on key variables such as "Affordable Public Transport" (5.15) and "Human Empowerment" (4.43). The study by Fasihi et al. (2020)has analyzed the distribution of urban parks, whereas the present research adopted a network analysis approach to spatial justice. The studies by Rostaei & Alizadeh (2020), Kashani et al. (2021), and Ghouchani et al. (2023) also focused on different dimensions of spatial justice. The findings of this research align with previous studies, confirming the impact of spatial justice on urban development [Feitosa et al., 2024].
Suggestions
Urban development strategies should focus on reducing spatial inequalities by revising existing policies, improving the distribution of infrastructure and public services in underserved areas, and leveraging new technologies like GIS to enhance urban planning and decision-making processes.
Conclusion
Emphasis on the development of affordable public transportation has the highest impact on spatial justice, while redistribution of income and resources has a lower influence. Additionally, factors like an inclusive urban society for all and equal development and culture progressively gain significance. Key indicators such as income redistribution, support for marginalized groups, recognition of differences, fair ownership, cultural diversity, and social interactions play a crucial role in promoting equitable physical-spatial development and achieving spatial justice.
Acknowledgments: We sincerely appreciate the collaboration of experienced urban planners and city managers who supported us in this study.
Ethical Permission: The authors have no ethical concerns to report.
Conflict of Interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
Author Contributions: Rakhshmah R (First Author), Main Researcher (60%); Zakerhaghighi K (Second Author), Introduction Writer/Methodologist (20%); Peyvastehgar Y (Third Author), Statistical Analyst (20%).
Funding: This article is derived from a PhD dissertation titled "Explaining the Factors Influencing Urban Physical-Spatial Development Based on the Theoretical Framework of Spatial Justice (Case Study: Yasuj City)" under the supervision of Dr. Kianoush Zaker Haghighi and consultation of Dr. Peyvastegar. The research expenses were covered by the first author.
Keywords:
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