Spatial identity categories for the understanding of public controversies: Analyzing the use of these categories in the context of water debates in Spain

In order to know how Catalonian citizens account water controversies in Spain, we analyzed six focus groups carried out in Catalonia in 2006. A concept of 'urban social identity' is used for our interpretations, having been adapted to highlight its interactional character. Tracking the spatial categories used in the discussions, we identified the variety of denominations employed to debate water problems in Spain. The analysis is focused on the most frequent categories to establish their utility and identify discursive actions that participants produce. Results indicate that speakers account the "water problems" mobilizing a common sense political geography that highlights the socio-spatial and conflicting character of water issues.