Arthur S. Morris

Indicators of Quality of Life: Some Methodological Issues

The importance of combining ‘subjective’ and ‘objective’ indicators in assessing the quality of life has been increasingly stated as a research goal. A new methodology for measuring quality of life which is an attempt to satisfy this objective is discussed. It includes a perceptually derived set of weightings and ‘objectively’ measured indicators of social, economic, and environmental characteristics of the largest thirty-eight cities in Britain. The weighting system, the selected indicators, and the resulting rankings of British cities are assessed in comparison with the local prosperity index. The strength of the approach is shown to lie in the fact that this more closely reflects the evaluation process used by the public in assessing the quality of life.

Range management and production on the fringe: The Caldenal, Argentina☆

Abstract North American problems in coming to terms with the management of the semi-arid Plains environment are well known. Less documented are those of Argentinas equivalent on the fringe of the Humid Pampas. Argentine agricultural aid and research has been focussed on the Humid Pampas, and little understanding of the special problems of the dry zone is apparent. Issues of production and conservation are in urgent need of attention. In addition to the limits posed by the natural environment, a number of human factors affect the ability of ranchers to produce from the dry lands. In a field study of the Caldenal, some indications are that the factors are different from other environments in Latin America. Large properties are not less productive per hectare than small, and standard technology does not guarantee good results from ranching. Tenant farming is not a problem, but there is an impoverished group, those ranchers without other means of earning a livelihood. A recommendation is for encouragement to be given to larger ranch units, and for more research into relevant technology, which is likely to include conservationist measures, whose introduction to the ranches should be financially supported.

In search of an explanation of quality of life in British cities : some Scottish dimensions

ABSTRACT A study of quality of life in British cities shows Scottish cities to be among the top ranking ones on an indexcompiled by the authors. This index involved a national survey of the importance of different elements of quality of life and measurement of 50 indicators. Scottish cities score well through their good physical environment, and in provision of some services. The study allows individual social and professional groups to be studied, as well as regional viewpoints on quality of life such as those of the Scots themselves.

Spain's new economic geography: The Mediterranean axis

Abstract A new economic geography is emerging in Spain, with major growth areas on the Mediterranean and through the Ebro Valley, while the Cantabrian coast experiences economic decline. This change is felt in all economic sectors, agriculture, manufacturing industry, and services, notably tourism. The interpretation of this new geography may be made in terms of the natural attractions of the Mediterranean environment, as a European Sunbelt, together with shifts in the nature of industry common to Spain and the rest of Western Europe.

Tourism and town planning in Catalonia

The coastal tourist areas of Spain have seen open conflict between planners and the public over the flood of tourist developments. The Costa Brava in the region of Catalonia is chosen for the purpose of this study which looks at the effects of the Land Use law of 1976 requiring all municipalities to prepare General Plans. The failure of plans which attempted to severely restrict tourist growth, and this papers conclusions, that the expansion of tourist pressure into new areas may create new conditions, suggest a regional approach to policy.

The nineteenth century Scottish carrier trade: Patterns of decline

Abstract Scottish carrier trade declined rapidly in the period 1820–60, but the pattern is complex and growth co‐exists with contraction. Total volume of traffic is halved, but in areas peripheral to the thin rail net there are increases. Glasgow was the main carrier centre, and saw not only contraction but a change from regional to local functions.

The argentine Colorado—interprovincial rivalries over water resources

Abstract Development of the irrigation and power potential of the Argentine Colorado has been held up by inter‐provincial dispute over rights to the water. Mendoza wished to make a major diversion into her irrigation and power network which were both underutilized. Downstream provinces meantime extended their use of the river in order to strike a prior claim in any shareout. Political issues effectively dictated economic geography. National government was finally able to arbitrate in 1976 and future patterns of use may be more rational.