Routledge Theories of Local Economic Development: Linking Theory to Practice

Product Description In economic development, theory and practice exist as two seemingly separate realities. Academics strive to develop or refine theory by drawing on abstract concepts about the way people behave and institutions work, while practitioners draw from a stock of experiences. By bringing together leading theorists and practitioners such as Blakely, Blair, McCann, Luger, Gunder, Stough and Stimson, this book provides the first comprehensive overview of local economic development theories for over fifteen years. It explores the theory behind the key concepts that every economic practitioner must understand and in doing so, ties together the various theories from across the disciplines to practice. Review 'This impressive book really delivers! The authors are all highly regarded international experts and leaders in regional science, planning, analytical geography, and regional economics who are known for both cutting-edge scholarship and for applied work which is widely accepted in the market place. I am certain that it will be warmly received by thoughtful economic development and planning practitioners who want to know where their field is heading and by faculty and graduate students who are interested in seeing theory put to the ultimate test - policy and practice.' Lay James Gibson, University of Arizona, USA '...this book provides an interesting selection of 16 papers that highlight the sheer variety of perspectives and frameworks available to economic policy maker and local development practitioner today.' New Zealand Geographer About the Author Dr James E Rowe is Senior Planner in Economic Development at Manukau City Council, New Zealand.