What are the economic prospects of European regions in a globalizing world? One view suggests that European regions will be overwhelmed by global forces; another suggests the rise of a new localism leading to a Europe of the regions. This book argues that neither of these accounts is correct. The authors offer detailed accounts of the local economies of Baden Wuttemberg, Emilia-Romagna, Switzerland, and Eastern Germany amongst others to support their view. In so doing they discuss a number of important and topical issues: industrial districts and their distinctiveness, organizational flexibility, regional economic planning, and the role of transnational companies. Through the application of an institutionalist perspective which stresses the importance of institutionalizing processes within the economy, the chapters in the book argue that regional economic prosperity will depend upon the degree to which regions are able to mobilize flexible institutional strategies. The book concludes that adaptable regions with a diverse institutional presence can harness the forces of globalization to their own ends. Other regions, with more rigid institutional structures, face a bleak future.
Reviews
I enjoyed reading this book because it conveys important messages about European regions ... the editors have worked hard to ensure continuity and development ... the book makes a significant contribution to our understanding of European and global geography. * Geography *
This closely-edited collection is an important contribution ... Like any good read, the book ends up posing almost as many questions as it answers ... This is a stimulating and thought-provoking text ... Whilst written in subtle and sophsticated prose, it is clear to read and the arguments are well-explained; as such, it is worth persevering with, even for those who might normally look to source material in other languages. * European Urban and Regional Studies *
I enjoyed reading this book because it conveys important messages about European regions ... the books makes a significant contribution to our understanding of European and global geography. * Geography *
In recent years considerable research effort has been expended in an exploration of the tensions between international economic processes and changing prospects for regional development. This closely-edited collection is an important contribution to that debate ... This is a stimulating and thought-provoking text. * European Urban and Regional Studies *
This book firmly establishes its position within the new institutionalist cam,.but at the same time it represents an attempt to forge a unique geographical dimension to the debate ... this book is a model of presentation and editing ... Amin and Thrift present a carefully honed introductory chapter that both contextualizes and attempts to bring together all of the contributors under a coherent intellectual umbrella. Individual chapters demonstrate both a depth and range that is illuminating, each chapter has a similar structure with a clear introduction and conclusion, the whole collection is then tied up with a closing chapter by the editors. * Andy C. Pratt, London School of Economics and Political Science, TIBG, August 1996 *



Book Information
ISBN 9780198289166
Author Ash Amin
Format Paperback
Page Count 282
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 469g
Dimensions(mm) 233mm * 156mm * 19mm