Many of the people Low interviews cite security as the primary concern for moving to such communities (Low 2003, pp. 111-31). Theft is the most commonly cited specific worry, but general misgivings concerning the perceived higher rates of criminality in the world today (regardless of their basis in actual social facts) are also contributing factors to the growing numbers of people flocking into these communities that are seen as being more protected (Low 2003).

A fear that is somewhat less openly acknowledged is the fear of others, which also receives an entire chapter in the book (Low 2003, pp. 133-52). Some areas have actually seen an increase in the level of voluntary segregation in housing; as the culture grows more and more diverse, people actually seem to be flocking to tighter communities of people perceived as the same in terms of color, language, and culture (Low 2003). The feeling of...
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