Introduction: shifting resources, multifaceted well-being

Abstract

Issues related to well-being and quality of life, as well as the factors that foster them, are central to debates about regional attractiveness and dynamics, residential location choices (from moving to a different neighbourhood within the same city to migrating between regions), firm location, segregation and socio-spatial inequalities. The view that growth is the sole determinant of quality of life has been challenged so much that analysts now focus on the multidimensional character of well-being, its constitutive components and the methods used to assess it (for comparative or benchmarking purposes; at a single point in time or over time; based on quantitative and qualitative approaches). Against this background, local resources and amenities (locally specific features that enhance the attractiveness of a given location) are receiving particular attention. From a public policy perspective, their diversity (built or intangible heritage, natural or cultural resources, among others), their generally lasting and systematically local character and their often public use make them especially interesting. Elected officials can seize upon these concepts and adjust local action according to various objectives that range from making living together easier to promoting their district, for example. This book presents empirical evidence of both the diversity of local resources and the interrelated issues surrounding the concept of wellbeing. The chapters are based on diverse research settings and methods and have both empirical and theoretical perspectives. Moreover, the chapters pay particular attention to policy recommendations that will help public or collective action on these issues. Furthermore, findings are drawn from cases located in different regions of France, Britain, Germany and the United States of America, which brings an international