Week 1: Introduction

1. My name is Andrew Wilson. I am an international student from Scotland, majoring in both Economics and Geography. Over the course of the next 10 weeks, I will provide an insight into the variation in social difference across 5 L.A locations, pinpointing specific social topics of interest. One topic I am particularly interested in is class inequality, and the effect that economic processes have on the distribution of wealth throughout the city. Having only been in LA for 3 weeks, the immense number of homeless people is alarming; most of whom are living only minutes from some of the worlds richest entertainers. Throughout this blog, I will draw upon the the age old argument of the impacts of space and place, focusing on how they interact with each other to create societies. This will provide a good basis for discussion. 
   
   

   What better place to explore social difference than Los Angeles? Societies and social difference have shaped the metropolitan area for decades, creating a unique urban environment which is changing rapidly across the city. The city offers a multi-race and ethnic community spread across countless neighbourhoods, each with a different approach to living.  Prior to my visit, the city of Los Angeles is well-known worldwide for its illustrious entertainment industry, media centre and possibility of living celebrity-like lifestyles. Hundreds of People flock here in search of a better life, hoping to make that elevation to stardom. This widespread perception deceives the masses and  disguises some of the social and economic pressures this city has to offer - differences in race, gender, ethnicity, age, religion and more.
   
   As a stranger to this city and the US culture as a whole, I relish the opportunity to explore the city in greater detail, hoping provide me with a better understand of social difference. I look forward to sharing my ideas with everyone and welcome any feedback or contrasting views you wish to share with me.