What is a relational approach?

Harald Bathelt and Johannes Glückler

Chapter 1 in Concise Introduction to Relational Economic Geography, 2026, pp 2-14 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: A relational approach to economic geography promotes an understanding of economic phenomena as being constituted by social interaction, geographically situated in structures of relations and contextual meaning. Departing from three foundational assumptions about economic interaction (i.e. contextuality, path-dependence and contingency), we discuss four dimensions that are essential in research about economic action in spatial perspective. Instead of viewing space as a causal factor of action, we apply a geographical lens. Examining the economy through this lens enables us to acknowledge that economic interaction is place-specific and subject to dynamic interdependencies. It takes place within and between organizations and results in innovation. All of this generates an evolutionary dynamic that enables us to investigate the complex interrelationships between social, economic and political processes. States play a critical role in this research as they operate as economic actors and reference points in the creation of institutional contexts at different spatial levels.

Keywords: Evolution; Geographical lens; Innovation; Interaction; Organization; Relational economic geography (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781802204971
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