Chapter 2: Context

This chapter provides the background context for the problem, the setting, and the issues related to shopping environments, all of which establish the background for this dissertation. From the previously stated problem, globalization has influenced the appearance of new shopping developments and poses a threat to the viability of traditional shopping environments. The problem affects local economy, retail businesses, and built environments in Bangkok, Thailand as a part of the affected locales. Furthermore, the problem affects cultural identity and relationships between people and the place they live, and among local people. This dissertation addresses the problem of globalization with specific regard to traditional shopping environments in Bangkok, Thailand. To begin, it is necessary to provide the background of the problem as it affects the setting, as well as other issues relating to the setting such as the design and previous study. This context chapter provides the background for the problem, the research setting, design and study issues related to the setting, and the approach to the problem.