Rural and Agriculture Development in Regional Science

Abstract

This paper discussed the trends and the outlook of the study of rural and agriculture development in regional science. Firstly, the relationships between regional science, area study, and regional economic development are clarified. Secondly, the definition, purpose, and approach of rural and agriculture development are described. Thirdly, the analytical approaches toward rural and agriculture development issues are introduced with some comments on the roles of entrepreneurs and knowledge creation in innovation. Fourthly, the pioneering studies in rural and agriculture development in Japan based on regional science and their development to new theories are evaluated. Finally, the theoretical framework of a new approach of strategic development for regional agriculture is introduced by combing synthetically conventional urban planning, community development, strategic marketing planning, and industrial cluster strategy based on collaborative advantage. In addition, future prospects in rural and agriculture development studies are recommended such as the issues of regional heterogeneity, rural-urban partnerships, creating more effective models for rural and agriculture development, perceived agriculture and rural areas, etc. Furtherly, the cognitive changes toward agriculture and rural area from regarding them as an ailing industry and a conservative and closed society to a growth industry and an open “space” to create knowledge and innovation are thought to be urgent in Asia.