Exploring the theoretical background of clusters

Arkadiusz Michał Kowalski ()

Chapter 1 in Clusters and Cluster Policy Models, 2025, pp 11-30 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Chapter 1 offers a profound and systematic exploration of the theoretical foundations of clusters, establishing the basis for a comprehensive understanding of how geographic concentrations of interconnected businesses and institutions significantly impact economic development and competitive advantage. This chapter navigates through the cluster theory's historical evolution and intellectual roots, starting from early economic thoughts up to contemporary perspectives. Each theory is dissected to highlight its relevance and application to the dynamics of clusters, showcasing how these theories collectively contribute to an understanding of the phenomenon. Furthermore, the chapter sets out to integrate these diverse theoretical perspectives into a cohesive framework, presenting an eclectic theoretical framework of cluster analysis. This integration underscores the complexity of clusters as multifaceted economic entities that are not only influenced by geographical and economic factors but also by social, technological, and institutional interactions.

Keywords: Agglomeration; Industrial districts; Central place theory; New growth theory; New economic geography; Eclectic theory of clusters (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035333974
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