The New Economic Regionalism: A Rural Policy Framework

Abstract

A conceptual framework is presented that clarifies issues involved in the rural policy debate. A new economic regionalism is emerging in which rural areas develop only as integral parts of larger regional economies. Advances in technology and new forms of economic competition that transcend both industrial and national boundaries have created a new regional dimension to the development process. The economic hardships and future opportunities of rural areas are better understood as the focus moves from rural economic development to the new regional development framework.