The Analytical Framework

GEOSPECS seeks to understand how each category of geographic specificity may influence socioeconomic development processes. However, these relations can potentially be infinite. Hence it is necessary to define a narrower set of research questions (and/or research hypotheses) to be explored in the project.

In view of constructing a coherent analysis of the social and economic significance of geographic specificities and their potential policy relevance, the research questions have been compiled in an analytical framework. This framework draws on two sources: the transversal themes of GEOSPECS as well as the outcomes of the stakeholder consultation. In a first step, all project partners developed a set of research questions for their transversal themes (see list of themes in navigation bar on the left). Afterwards, the research questions and hypotheses were adapted according to the priorities identified in the stakeholder consultation. In this way, the analytical framework has been designed to provide a coherent basis for the analysis of different categories of geographic specificity. It will shed light not only on the major differences between and specific characteristics of the seven GEOSPECS categories, but also on their commonalities, allowing for a general discourse on territorial diversity and its political implications.

The analytical framework can be viewed in the Interim Report . In the next phase of the project, these hypotheses will be tested by quantitative and qualitative methods.