CentralPeriphery

Central-Periphery theory, also known as the Central Place Theory, is a concept in geography and urban planning that describes the spatial organization of human settlements. It was first proposed by Walter Christaller in 1933. The theory suggests that settlements are organized in a hierarchical manner, with larger, more central places serving as hubs for smaller, peripheral settlements.

In this model, central places are characterized by their size, economic importance, and the range of services they offer. They are typically located at the intersections of major transportation routes, such as highways or railways. Peripheral settlements, on the other hand, are smaller and less economically significant. They are often located around the central places and serve as suppliers of raw materials or consumers of goods and services.

The theory also explains the distribution of different types of services and industries within the central-periphery system. For example, primary industries, such as agriculture, are typically located in the peripheral settlements, while secondary and tertiary industries, such as manufacturing and services, are concentrated in the central places.

Central-Periphery theory has been widely used in urban planning and development, as it provides a framework for understanding the spatial organization of human settlements and the distribution of economic activities. However, it has also been criticized for its oversimplification of the complex processes that shape urban systems. Despite these criticisms, the theory remains a valuable tool for understanding the spatial organization of human settlements and the dynamics of urban growth.