Social Needs in the Urban Environment: How social needs are perceived in the urban environment of Malmö, Sweden according to geographical location.

The sociology of urban space is a field lacking in research and debate. Acknowledging that this is a matter with which all individuals interact, it is therefore curious as to why. This thesis argues that urban space in Malmo is not being utilised to its fullest potential and through simple attention to the social reality of humans, this could be achieved. In a thorough study of eight different social needs, the inner city of Malmo is analysed, categorised and rethought according to these principals. Empirical evidence shows that it is both aesthetic quality and ability to form social contacts which provides the best social spaces in Malmo. How these needs are expressed geographically are demonstrated through GIS mapping, and direct insight from residents of Malmo themselves are captured to reveal the social geography of Sweden’s third largest city. (Less)