Core and Periphery Model

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The Core and Periphery model was developed in 1963 by John Friedmann, and it describes spatially how economic, political, and cultural authority is spread out in core and periphery regions. The Core-Periphery model works on many scales, from towns and cities to a global scale. The model describes four stages of development: pre-industrial, transitional, industrial, and post-industrial.

A great example of the Core-Periphery model is Brazil, with the ‘golden triangle’ at its core and the Amazon as its main peripheral area. Within cities like Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte, and Prio de Janeiro, overheating has become a serious problem. Large amounts of people from the peripheral areas move to the core area, which causes many problems like overcrowding, lack of housing, and sometimes the formation of favelas, a type of low-income informal settlement.

In much the same way as core areas are affected by changes in dynamics, the peripheral areas are also affected by these processes. For example, a large majority of the people moving into the core area are young adults. The peripheral areas are therefore losing young, potentially educated, adults.

There are reasons why the core area develops and not other areas such as the peripheral areas. Sao Paulo, for example, developed because of its coffee industry, and Rio de Janeiro because, as a port, it’s an important centre for imports and exports. On the other hand, the peripheral areas haven’t developed because of the lack of accessibility and human and physical resources.

Core and Periphery Model Illustrated

An illustration showing the Core and Periphery Model
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core-periphery model in development?

The core-periphery model in development is a concept that describes the spatial and economic divisions between developed core regions and less-developed periphery regions. The model suggests that core regions, typically urban and industrialized areas, experience higher levels of economic development, infrastructure, and access to resources, while periphery regions, often rural and remote areas, lag behind in terms of development indicators.

What factors contribute to the formation of a core region?

Several factors contribute to the formation of a core region:

  • Concentration of industries, advanced technology, and skilled labour.
  • Access to transportation networks, ports, and major markets.
  • Availability of financial institutions, research centres, and educational facilities.
  • Infrastructure development, including reliable electricity, water, and communication systems.

How does the core-periphery model explain regional inequalities?

The core-periphery model explains regional inequalities by suggesting that core regions accumulate economic wealth and resources, while periphery regions experience a lack of investment and development. The model highlights how economic activities and opportunities tend to be concentrated in core regions, leading to uneven distribution of wealth, income, and development indicators between the two.

Can periphery regions transition to become core regions?

Periphery regions have the potential to transition into core regions through various mechanisms, such as:

  • Investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to improve human capital.
  • Promotion of local industries and entrepreneurship to foster economic growth.
  • Strategic regional planning and development policies to attract investment and stimulate economic activities.
  • Enhancing connectivity and access to markets through transportation and communication networks.
  • Leveraging natural resources and promoting sustainable practices for economic development.

What are some criticisms of the core-periphery model in development?

The core-periphery model has faced criticism due to several limitations, including:

  • Oversimplification: The model assumes a binary division between core and periphery, ignoring variations and complexities within regions.
  • Neglect of cultural and historical factors: The model primarily focuses on economic factors and does not adequately account for cultural, social, and historical dynamics that influence development.
  • Role of globalization: The model does not fully consider the impact of globalization, trade relations, and transnational flows of capital and labor on the development of both core and periphery regions.
  • Limited focus on local agency: The model may overlook the agency and initiatives of local communities and governments in driving development and challenging the core-periphery divide.

References

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Cite/Link to This Article

  • "Core and Periphery Model". Geography Revision. Accessed on March 28, 2024. https://geography-revision.co.uk/gcse/development/core-periphery-model/.

  • "Core and Periphery Model". Geography Revision, https://geography-revision.co.uk/gcse/development/core-periphery-model/. Accessed 28 March, 2024.

  • Core and Periphery Model. Geography Revision. Retrieved from https://geography-revision.co.uk/gcse/development/core-periphery-model/.