Santiago de Chile: Modernization, segregation and urban identities in the twenty-first century

This paper discusses research carried out in Santiago, Chile, and addresses the origin and construction of urban identities in this segregated city of the twenty?first century. Based on sociological and ethnographic evidence, urban identity?building processes are analysed by observing the occupation, use and appropriation of territory. The hypothesis is that, despite evidence of segregation, modernisation and globalisation, urban people reinvent lifestyles within their territories in order to harmonise their bonds of affection and belonging by using distinguishing markings or “brands” and by adopting typical everyday habits. The modern, segregated and global city is filled with “islands” that convey imagery and desires for a friendlier urban life.