Exploring the neighbourhood

Abstract

[INTRODUCTION] Attempts to find policy responses to the urgency of the current housing crisis would benefit from academically grounded normative evaluation. This requires development of a theoretical framework, such as a capability theory on housing. [METHODOLOGY] This study aims to contribute to such development trough analysing the Dutch National Programme Liveability and Security using Bachhi’s ‘What is the problem represented to be?’-method. [RESULTS] Exploration of relevant themes showed several modes of interrelatedness of means, conversion factors and capabilities among physical, social and security domains. Moreover, results raised conceptual questions regarding the role of ‘location’ and ‘collective agency’ in the capability approach. [DISCUSSION] If such results are found reliable and valid by future research, these would need to be considered during further theory development to ensure applicability as framework for normative evaluation of current housing policy.