Towards a cultural cartography of the Mediterranean : developing an analytical tool for policy-makers

Abstract

This dissertation initially examines the various ways in which the Mediterranean and its cultural context are understood, exploring different cultural theories. This work goes on to explore the different uses of measurements for cultural variations in large groups, using indicators and indices in evaluating territorial commonalities across the Mediterranean States. The text next attempts to see if a single composite indicator for change could be proposed and, failing that, proposes enhancing the work of Hofstede, Inglehart and Schwartz, using other established indices, as with a modified form of HDI. The dissertation proceeds to propose the use of data pillars, furthering work developed by INSEAD. The summary GIS cartographic projections are also shown in layered GIS, using external interactive sources such as Google Earth, to underline the potential of the proposed approach. This is seen through the use of interactive choropleths, now mainstream through the increased availability of technological and online tools, as facilitating communication for the policy-maker. In the atlas annexed, one will find a preview of the iterations offered through online interactive mapping, which the paper format does not necessarily allow. Finally, the text lays the foundation for the future amalgamation of an increasing number of online and offline interactive data, to be visually layered, analysed and communicated, targetting the policy-maker. This dissertation is limited to a data-based approach focusing on countries, and can be used as the basis for future incorporation of localized data allowing sufficient low-level data blocks to have national data built on them. The scalability of this methodology and data, the use of live and dynamic data such as that offered by social media, together with Big Data analytics, will permit future trend analysis not proffered in this dissertation.