A Multi-Level Approach to the Study of Center-Periphery Systems and Socio-Economic Change

Abstract

Models of center and periphery based on theories of dependence, dominance, and imperialism have shown themselves fruitful for understanding the dynamics of underdevelopment and regional inequalities on the global level. Our analysis attempts to demonstrate the applica bility of similar approaches to the study of intranational regional problems as well. A partial test of Johan Galtung's center-periphery model, as presented in his 'Structural Theory of Imperialism', by means of data relating to Norwegian regional inequalities supports the empirical tenability of this perspective.

A critical examination of the effects of regional development policies leads us to the conclusion that a purely relational center-periphery model is insufficient as a conceptual tool for understanding the historical dynamics of center-periphery dominance. The relational properties of center-periphery systems should be viewed not only as independent variables. These properties should be understood also as dependent variables generated from and formed by internal conditions in center and periphery societies. This perspective is further elaborated by proposing a typology of center-periphery systems according to the mode of production dominating the social units constituting the system.

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