Centrepériphérie

Centrepériphérie is a French term that translates to "center-periphery" in English. It describes a spatial and economic relationship where a dominant core region, the center, exerts influence and control over less developed or subordinate regions, the periphery. This concept is commonly used in geography, sociology, and political science to analyze inequalities and power dynamics within countries, continents, or even globally.

The center typically possesses economic, political, and cultural advantages. It is often characterized by a concentration of industries, financial institutions, government bodies, and technological innovation. The periphery, conversely, is often characterized by resource extraction, lower-value manufacturing, and a dependence on the center for economic opportunities and decision-making. This relationship can lead to imbalances in development, migration patterns, and cultural homogenization, where the periphery may adopt the norms and values of the center.

The centre-periphery model helps to explain disparities in wealth, infrastructure, and access to services between different regions. For instance, a nation's capital city and its surrounding metropolitan area might be considered the center, while rural or less industrialized areas are the periphery. Similarly, in a global context, developed nations can be seen as the center and developing nations as the periphery. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for addressing regional inequalities and promoting more balanced development.