Analysis Globalization and Spatial Justice through Cultural Experience Accessibility, Emphasis on London and New York Experiences

Introduction:
Globalization, through the expansion of economic, social, and cultural flows, has transformed the structure and function of contemporary cities, particularly global cities. However, the benefits and opportunities generated by globalization are not distributed equally among social groups and urban spaces, leading to the emergence of spatial inequalities. In this context, equitable access to spaces, amenities, and cultural experiences—as a crucial dimension of urban life—demands serious attention to spatial justice. Therefore, examining the relationship between globalization, spatial justice, and access to cultural experience can contribute to a better understanding of the prerequisites for realizing more just and inclusive global cities.
The Purpose of the Research:
The objective of this study is to investigate spatial justice in access to cultural experience within global cities in the context of globalization. To this end, drawing upon Fainstein’s "Just City" theory and its three core dimensions—equity, democracy, and diversity—the indicators associated with spatial justice in access to cultural experience are examined. Adopting a comparative approach, this research analyzes the global cities of London and New York, seeking to identify and prioritize relevant indicators while elucidating the similarities and differences between the two cities from the perspective of spatial justice in access to cultural experience.
Methodology:
In terms of approach, this study employs a mixed-methods (quantitative–qualitative) design, and in terms of nature, it is analytical and applied. In the qualitative phase, necessary data were collected through documentary and library research, from which components related to globalization, spatial justice, and access to cultural experience were extracted. In the quantitative phase, indicators associated with the three dimensions of equity, democracy, and diversity were evaluated; factor analysis and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) were utilized for their analysis and prioritization. Finally, the results were applied to perform a comparative analysis of the global cities of London and New York.
Findings and Discussion:
The research findings indicate that in both London and New York, equity, diversity, and democracy—as the three core dimensions of the Just City—are significant in evaluating spatial justice in access to cultural experience; however, the relative importance of individual indicators differs between the two cities. In London, indicators related to low-income housing provision, affordable housing stock, and preventing unnecessary household displacement exhibited greater importance. Conversely, in New York, affordable housing stock, low-income housing provision, and consideration for workers' and employees' interests ranked higher. The results demonstrate that equity in resource distribution, support for underprivileged groups, and attention to diverse social groups play a vital role in realizing a Just City.
Conclusion:
The final results of the study indicate that achieving spatial justice in access to cultural experience within global cities requires concurrent attention to equity, democracy, and diversity. A comparison between London and New York demonstrates that although both cities possess extensive cultural capacities, their social, economic, historical, and spatial disparities account for differing priorities among spatial justice indicators. Accordingly, enhancing equitable access to cultural experience necessitates a fairer distribution of resources and opportunities, support for underprivileged groups, recognition of social and cultural diversity, and the creation of suitable conditions for various groups to benefit from cultural amenities and spaces.