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Entropy, Variety, Economics, and Spatial Interaction. 熵、多样性、经济学和空间相互作用
Author(s) -
Gordon Ian
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
geographical analysis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.773
H-Index - 65
eISSN - 1538-4632
pISSN - 0016-7363
DOI - 10.1111/j.1538-4632.2010.00802.x
Subject(s) - variety (cybernetics) , mainstream , centrality , diversity (politics) , spatial analysis , entropy (arrow of time) , epistemology , causality (physics) , econometrics , computer science , economic geography , sociology , statistical physics , positive economics , data science , mathematics , geography , economics , artificial intelligence , political science , statistics , physics , philosophy , quantum mechanics , anthropology , law
This article locates the gravity‐type spatial interaction model within the strand of regional science that recognizes the centrality of heterogeneity for spatial analysis. Wilson's entropy‐maximizing (EM) formulation is considered alongside that from random utility (RU) functions as bases for theorizing the interaction model and the role of diversity in spatial processes. It highlights ambiguities in the relationship of the EM approach to causality, particularly in relation to assumed constraints on modeled outcomes, and the significance of variety as a concept emerging from the RU approach to analysis of spatial interactions. Taking as an example the challenge of translating central place theory into a heterogeneous form, it argues the need for spatial modeling to engage more closely with the substantive explanatory concerns and hypotheses of mainstream geographers and regional scientists.