From Prejudice to Systemic Exclusion: How Slum Stereotypes Deepen Injustice for Residents

Journal: Modern Economics & Management Forum DOI: 10.32629/memf.v6i5.4522

Shuyu Wang

AAN Architects, Guangzhou 510100, Guangdong, China

Abstract

This paper critiques the harmful effects of the "slum" stereotype, arguing that it perpetuates the marginalization of informal urban settlements. Contrary to their negative image, these areas are a normal and inevitable stage of urbanization, driven by migration and economic necessity. The stereotype leads to government neglect, inadequate infrastructure, and undervalued land, worsening living conditions. Using the case of Mumbai, the study demonstrates how this stigma reinforces inequality. It calls for destigmatization by recognizing the value of informality and proposes interventions such as regulating the informal economy and improving infrastructure to integrate these areas equitably into the city.

Keywords

slum stereotypes, informal space, urban inequality, stigmatization

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References

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