Crowds and conclaves : encounters with gentrifiers and gentrifier types in Valletta

Abstract

In this thesis I have explored the role of gentrifiers in the gentrification of Valletta. Gentrification is a chaotic concept which entails a number of variables. The role of gentrifiers has been highlighted by practically all theorists. The personal profiles and aspirations of gentrifiers have, however, often been addressed with insufficient attention to qualitative detail. In this thesis I explore the personalities and backgrounds of gentrifiers. I argue that the crucial role of gentrifiers requires that we engage in a closer scrutiny of them as individuals in order to redress the imbalance between qualitative and quantitative analysis.