Chapter 1.1: Introduction

This book describes new methods developed in transport and social exclusion research and explores the various perspectives discovered in applying them. The new methods seek to provide a more robust quantitative basis for measurement of links between transport disadvantage, social exclusion and well-being. Many of the pre-existing methods used to explore these areas have been useful in developing our understanding of the field. However, they involve qualitative and anecdotal evidence which limits our ability to prioritise and value the impacts of transport on social exclusive and vice versa. The methods described in this book aim to provide quantification to enable more powerful analytical approaches which make it possible to value and prioritise links, influences and effects. Many of the discoveries that result are revealing and should assist substantially in clarifying policy responses to address social disadvantage.