ABSTRACT
This chapter explains gated settlements in South Africa, and specifically in the city of Johannesburg. The reflections presented in the chapter are based on ethnographic fieldwork, stretching over two years, 2011-2012. The chapter informs the relevance of comparative work as a way of grappling with the main features of gated settlements. The role of the different institutions at play in the differently organized suburbs is extremely relevant in understanding how identities are shaped in the urban space, and in the two suburbs. Questions of identity and belonging are to be taken into consideration when talking about the inner world of gated communities. It is important to study golf courses and suburbs in a relational way. Relating the study to an analysis of the system and power relations, gives an idea as to the impact and relevance of these communities both in spatial and political terms.
