Evolutionary Economic Geography of Regional Resilience and Path Creation: Toward an Extension of the Theory of Locational Adjustment

Abstract

This study examines trends in evolutionary economic geography by using regional resilience theory and path creation theory to expand the theory of locational adjustment. Regional resilience theory integrates the relationship between temporary shocks and persistent slow burns, and between adaptation and adaptability. Path creation theory views path creation as an interaction between change and reproductive agencies and presents a model of discontinuous path changes. The scope of evolutionary economic geography is being extended into the future by focusing on expectations that promote the legitimization of path creation. The locational adjustment theory, which incorporates evolutionary economic geography, emphasizes nonlinear change and focuses on agency as well as structural factors. By combining the theories of regional resilience and path creation with existing theories of locational adjustment, which focus on the continuity of location, organizational position, and scale of large firms, we can enhance our understanding of locational adjustment.