Browsing by Author "McCarthy, Jeffrey J."

Now showing 1 - 15 of 15

Amawoti : responding to the needs and rights of people with disabilities.
(1994) Philpott, Susan Carol.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; McClaren, Pamela.; Fincham, Robert John.; Lund, Frances Jane.
Abstract available in PDF.
Butterworth : a growth pole.
(1991) Sarpong, Emmanuel.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; Willis, Geoffrey A.
In recent times much attention has b een focussed on the spatial development of countries, especially in those countries of the world referred to as the Third World. Many factors have given rise to this interest. It has arisen due in part to the important position of development today both as a means of enhancing the wealth of man's environment, and as a means of raising living standards. It is also a result of the problems being experienced by many countries due to the large spatial inequalities in development that has arisen in these countries. In Transkei a history of racial discrimination and the impact of its close relationship to its former colonial power, South Africa, have combined to produce a spatial pattern of development in which inequalities have become evident. Unfortunately, meaningful efforts have not been evolved to manage the inequalities in such a way as to achieve a balance in spatial development. The need therefore exists to study the factors causing variations in spatial development in Transkei and to suggest methods through which the evolving pattern can be adapted to conform to, if a balance in spatial development is to be obtained from the present pattern of inequalities. Arising from the background given, this study set out within the growth pole framework to examine the linkages between Butterworth, the most industrial region in Transkei and the rest of the space economy. Forty nine industries and a total of 645 industrial employees of various categories were selected for the study. Linkages were measured with respect to sources of raw materials, destination of finished goods, origin of industrial employees and the destinations of remittances by industrial employees. Through the use of techniques such as percentage concentration, correlations, and regression analysis among others for the analysis of the data, the following information emerged from the study: (i) agglomeration economies for the industries in Butterworth are minimal. (ii) Linkages between Butterworth industries and the rest of the Transkeian space economy are minimal. The minimal agglomeration economies and linkages have been due to the fact that industries are set up in Butterworth neither because a market exist for its products nor that raw materials exist that are to be utilised in production. This implies that industrial developments as at present is not being properly guided to ensure the attainment of a balanced spatial pattern of development. From the above findings, it has been proposed that programmes geared towards the establishment of linkages such as the production of raw materials for the industries will be more beneficial than the present regional development strategy. The need for support measures for the industries in Butterworth has also been proposed as a method of raising their economic efficiency and hence their ability to transmit developmental impulses to other regions in Transkei.
Communal space construction : the rise and fall of Clairwood and district.
(1994) Scott, Dianne.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
This study documents the emergence of an Indian cultural enclave located on the periphery of the colonial town of Durban, its subsequent rise to a flourishing communal space by the mid twentieth century, and its decline in the apartheid era. The focus on change and transformation locates the research question within the broad ambit of historical geography. Clairwood and District grew into a densely-populated informal living space with all facilities and institutions built by the community. Based on a cultural inheritance in the form of language, the extended family system and religious beliefs , the Indian settlers and their descendants developed an elaborate network of kinship and communal relationships which formed the moral and social framework for the process of communal space construction. Entering the colony of Natal predominantly as indentured labour, the Indians were from the outset ostracized and subjugated by the white settlers and perceived as an alien temporary group. This identity was henceforth embodied in discriminatory legislation which marginalized the Indians in South Africa and resulted in their neglect and spatial containment. Parallel to the organic process of Indian communal space construction occurring in southern Durban was the sustained policy of land-use transformation embarked upon by the Durban municipality. The goal of this policy was to create a 'productive zone' south of Durban within an explicit racial zoning plan. The application of this goal resulted in a clash between the dominant white culture and the subordinate Indian culture as each.sought to retain control of the southern corridor and define its land-use and identity. After a protracted struggle the Durban municipality succeeded in imposing a formal industrial landscape upon the communal living space with the exception of the small node in Clairwood itself which has remained a residential enclave. This vestige of the former flourishing residential area of Clairwood and District suffers from industrial penetration and a physically degraded environment. However, it retains a sense of place of the former vibrant community. Clairwood is currently undergoing a process of revitalization under the auspices of the Durban municipality with a subsequent redefinition of identity. The study documents the cultural meanings that have been produced in a unique urban landscape in a South African city revealing the need to uncover the historical geographies of minority groups as a source of identity and a resource for future urban reconstruction.
Gender, geography and urban form : a case study of Durban.
(1987) Friedman, Michelle.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; Beall, Josephine Dianne.
This research project is primarily a theoretical work which critiques androcentric knowledge in general and androcentricism in South African human geography in particular . It therefore has relevance both for local geographers and local feminists . The project as a whole has been informed by feminist politics at a theoretical , practical and personal level . The lack of gender-consciousness in the local radical geography tradition is challenged and local geographers are provided with specific pointers for moving beyond a gender-blind impasse . Furthermore , it is argued that the majority of the local gender-conscious literature has inadequately theorised patriarchal gender relations and that such a theorisation would have crucial bearing on developing strategies for social change . It is suggested that a materialist feminist theoretical framework offers the most sophisticated tool yet developed for understanding the oppression of women . Hence , a variety of contemporary materialist feminist work is reviewed, and a realist perspective is offered as a way of theorising the complex interconnections between the social relations of race, class and gender . This materialist approach has thus far had the greatest impact on feminist geographers. A selection of the latter 's work is therefore presented in order to illustrate how they have expanded our understanding of urban processes . Finally, empirical data pertaining to Durban is used to illustrate a) how gender is socially constructed: b) how gender meanings change over time and c) the way in which patriarchal gender relations have been expressed in the local context. It is ultimately asserted that geographers must take it as implicit that the categories and forces of the processes of urbanisation are dependent upon a specific construction of gender . The study of this, must in consequence become an integral part of human geographical analysis .
The Group Areas Act in Durban : central-local state relations.
(1992) Maharaj, Bridgemohan.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
The growth paths of small business in a competitive global economy : the network perspective in the context of the clothing manufacturing industry in Durban.
(2004) Owusu-Ampomah, Kwame.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
One of the most enigmatic phenomena to explain in social and business sciences is the functioning and economic growth of organisations and national economies. This is testified by the several theoretical frameworks, which, with varying degrees of success, attempt to unravel the growth puzzle. This dissertation focuses on the network theory, with particular reference to small business growth in the contemporary competitive global economy. The primary focus is the isolation thesis which maintains that although small business growth is constrained by a number of factors, isolation rather than size is the key problem and that the answer lies in networking and clustering. Hypothesising that fraternal network is the most significant type of network for small business growth, the dissertation investigates the structural properties of networks in relation to the performance of the small clothing manufacturing enterprises (SCMEs) in the Durban Metropolitan Area (DMA). Combining qualitative and quantitative research approaches, descriptive network data and hermeneutic analyses, the dissertation argues that the growth and development of small business may be understood by the framework of relationships between the scopes of fraternal and factor networks, the medium of communication and the human factor. The dissertation empirically confirms the isolation thesis and the widely documented view that networks have positive impact on business performance although they could also be detrimental. The study finds that although clustering may be necessary it is certainly not a sufficient condition for inter-firm co-operation and joint action to a level that promotes individual firm performance and collective efficiency. The study argues that the widely documented poor performance of the clothing industry in the Durban Metropolis is, to a large extent, due to inadequate network relationships. The observed minimal network relationships among the sampled firms is largely the result of human factor decay manifesting as mistrust, selfishness, dishonesty, greed etc. Conceding that human factor decay is largely a consequence of the process of modernisation or the transition from Germeinschaft (Community) to Gesellschaft (Association), the dissertation maintains that human factor decay among the sampled SCMEs is exacerbated by the apartheid system, which undermined social and economic relationships. Of the three types of networks identified in the literature - factor, fraternal and communication networks - the study confirms the latter as the most significant to SCMEs in Durban. The study also confirms the view that the use of electronic networks or new information and communication technologies (ICTs) contributes significantly to economic performance. Although reverse causality is a possibility, the dissertation concludes that small firms are likely to be better off through increased electronic connectivity, as compared to face-to-face (FTF) interactions. By this finding and conclusion the study, on one hand, fails to confirm the hypothesis that fraternal networks are the most significant types of networks among the SCMEs in Durban. On the other hand, it confirms Castells' theory of a universal trend of social change towards a network society, a global informational economy and a culture of 'real virtuality'. The impact of ICTs use on the effectiveness and efficiency of networks, however, depends on the scope of networks but more importantly, on the human factor (HF) i.e., appropriate human personality traits, e.g., information management skills and knowledge, trust, honesty, reciprocity, loyalty and creativity. In the concluding chapter, the dissertation explores the policy implications of the findings and offers recommendations that could inform trade and industrial policy for small business growth and development through the network perspective.
Hidden migration, livelihoods, identities and citizenship : Malawians in the city of Durban.
(2004) Vawda, Mehmood Shahid Essop.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; McCracken, Donal Patrick.
This thesis is an investigation into the undocumented migration of Malawians to the city of Durban, and the influences on their livelihoods, identities and continued links to Malawi. In this context the thesis raises the issue of migration and citizenship. In the past Malawians were involved in contract migration system tightly controlled by the mining industry and the state, and in which their freedom of movement and association was circumscribed. This thesis argues that there is a new, emerging new form of migration, which may be termed transnational migration that has taken root since the early 1990s. It involves a web of links and networks created by transmigrants between Malawi and Durban. For a variety of reasons this transnational migration pattern is less visible, and largely hidden from the official gaze of the state. The reasons for migrating to Durban are mainly, through not exclusively economic ones, that is, about creating a livelihood, or multiple livelihoods. Malawian migrants become enmeshed in a series of livelihood itineraries as part of the chain of migration from towns and villages en route to, and in Durban. In pursuing their livelihood itineraries they begin to use their networks and other resources such as their ethnic and religious identities, family and friendship ties, nationality, accumulated experiences, skills and entrepreneurship to insert themselves in the city, and in the process, seek, find or create work in both the formal and informal sectors of the local economy. In this context they develop a sense of belonging to and being part of the city and begin to institutionalise their presence, contributing in many ways, both socially and economically to the city. The thesis argues that their presence, practices, dispositions and accomplishments in the city of Durban, and continued links to Malawi raise pertinent issues around the question of citizenship and migration.
Mass violence in Durban's settlements in the 1980s.
(1989) Byerley, Mark Alan.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
The focus of this study is on the occurrence of mass violence in Durban's settlements in the 1980s. Mass violence is defined as the violent reaction of crowds against targets, which may be people and/or objects - for example the stoning of buses or administration buildings, schools, etc. The theoretical framework for the study derives from recent realist philosophy emerging from prominent British social theorists. The method of analysis is based on a framework developed for the analysis of the UK inner city 'riots' of the 1980s. The theory emphasizes the nature of the relationship between the contending groups with particular attention paid to the presence of contingent factors. The analytical method was broadened so as to incorporate rebellion rather than simply 'rioting', as it was developed for in the UK context. Data was gathered in the first instance through an analysis of news reports of 'unrest' for the period 1980-85. Due to restrictions on the press from 1985, the Indicator SA unrest chronologies were used extensively for the period 1985-87. This extensive analysis provides an overview of mass violence, organizational developments, and government response for the period under consideration. Case studies were selected for the more intensive analysis presented in Chapter 4. These are based on published and unpublished reports of 'unrest', interviews, and group discussions. The extensive/intensive dualism of method assisted in giving both an overview of mass violence for the area, and an insight into the particular form it took in specific areas. Finally, the case studies were placed in their regional context, and further reasons sought for the particular nature of 'unrest' in Durban and Natal during the period. The conclusion assesses the explanatory power of the theory and methodology employed in relation to the South African situation.
Pietermaritzburg residential architecture: its evolution through time and space - a Scottsville case study.
(1994) Fenn, Deborah Gail.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; Kearney, Brian.
Abstract available in PDF.
Pietermaritzburg: in search of a local economic development strategy.
(1994) Sapsford, Peter.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
Abstract available in PDF.
The political economy of urban and regional planning in South Africa, 1900 to 1988 : towards theory to guide progressive practice.
(1989) Smit, Daniel Petrus.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; Kahn, Michael.
The dissertation has three major objectives. The first is to examine the relation between the nature and trajectory of urban and regional planning in South Africa, and developments within the, South African political economy of which it is an integral part. The second is to contribute to the sparse literature on the history of urban and regional planning in South Africa. The third is to consider the historical record on and the prospects for facilitating progressive social change through planning in South Africa. An empirical analysis of the history of urban and regional planning for the period 1900 to 1988 provides the basis for the achievement of all three objectives. In attempting to fulfil the first objective Sate emphasis is placed on examining the relationship between territorial apartheid and planning. The experiential basis of the distinction often made between planning and apartheid by South African planners is explored. The conclusion reached is that whilst a distinction between the trajectory of professional town planning and territorial apartheid is sustainable, there has also been a very substantial measure of articulation. Special emphasis is also given to examining the relationship between planning and the specific nature and history of the accumulation process in South Africa. In this regard it is concluded that the accumulation process has bone both an indirect and direct relation to planning at different junctures. At times the trajectory of accumulation has simply provided a context which has affected the definition of social priorities and placed limits on what could be pursued through planning. At other times the momentum of accumulation has quite directly affected planning, providing opportunities for or requiring responses from planners. As far as the record on the social role played by planners is concerned, it is concluded that planning has not cut a particularly progressive profile. The emergence of a progressive planning movement in South Africa is however noted. Possibilities for pursuing progressive practices are identified against the background of a detailed analysis of the contemporary period.
The regional services council debacle in Durban c. 1984-1989.
(1990) Pillay, Udeshtra.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; Bekker, Simon.
This research project explores the restructuring of local government in the Durban Metropolitan Area (DMA) and, in particular, the delay in the implementation of Regional Services Councils (RSCs) in this region. During the late 1980's, both as an ongoing process of implementing apartheid and in response to various crises, the South African state has reformulated and restructured legislation and policies which have a regional dimension. The reform and restructuring of local and regional government have emerged as some of the central components of this strategy. The development which has changed the face of local government most obviously in recent years has been the introduction of RSCs. These bodies have been established in all the major metropolitan regions in South Africa, except Durban. While the Durban area was expected to host South Africa's first operational RSC, a protracted stalemate has developed over the implementation of these bodies. Informed by a theoretical conceptualisation of the research problem, which was found to lie at the interface of the concepts of local government restructuring and questions on the nature of the region, and the direct and indirect methods of investigation and data gathering, the study documents and seeks to explain the RSC impasse in the region. The practical import and significance of the conclusions reached from this study extend beyond the explanation of the RSC debacle in Durban . They offer insights into the power and influence that locality-based structures can wield in defining and redefining concepts of the metropolitan region. In addition, they enhance an understanding of the Natal/KwaZulu region, its proclaimed 'specificity', and the way in which this specificity has impacted on political developments here.
Rents and urban political geography, the case of Lamontville.
(1986) Reintges, Claudia M.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
This research project explores the relevance of the available urban political geographic literature to understanding mobilization that occurred in opposition to rent increases,and the proposed alteration of a national political boundary in the urban black township of Lamontville. A theoretical extension to the available literature was proposed. The choice of methods of investigation, was informed by the need for geography to be more relevant to the present political climate evident on the urban terrain, as well as the theoretical necessity to interact with individual intellectuals of the organization. As such direct and indirect methods of investigation and data gathering were utilized. These included Participant Observation, In-depth Focus Interviews and a Content Analysis of the media. In the course of investigation it proved enlightening to move beyond the conventional subject/object dichotomy to engage in the moment of reflexive activity (Willis, 1976). The research clarified that the theoretical and methodological innovations suggested were necessary; if the process embodied by the organization was to be understood; if geography was to be capable of contributing to such an understanding; and if this understanding was to be relevant and informative to the investigated organization.
Residential growth in Durban : a spatial analysis.
(1978) McCarthy, Jeffrey J.; Davies, Ronald John.
No abstract available.
Rethinking society and space : neighbourhood, locality and region in a changing South Africa.
(1994) Wittenberg, Martin Werner.; McCarthy, Jeffrey J.
Abstract available in pdf file.