The author presents economic phenomena in the continuous 2-dimensional geographical space with particular focus on the emergence of spatial structures. This text starts out from the classical models of the space economy, associated with such names as: von Thünen, Launhardt, Weber, Christaller and Lösch. The theories are stated in terms of precise mathematical models, and are generalized by the use of results from modern topology. The mathematical tools needed - variational calculus, vector analysis, and differential equation theory - are stage by stage developed in the context of applications, and the reasoning is supported by a lavish supply of elaborate computer graphics, making even topics considered tough intuitively digestable. The reader will therefore not only acquire an understanding for the importance of including geographical space in economic models, but he will also learn to handle the mathematical tools needed for working with such models.

Inhalt

Prologue.- 1 Location Theory.- 2 Optimal Routes.- 3 Flows in the Space Economy.- 4 Market Areas.- 5 Land Use.- 6 Commuting and Migrating.- 7 Cycles, Growth, and Equilibrium.- 8 Transportation Networks.- Epilogue.- Glossary of Formulas.