Prices and quantities of both stock and flow variables in an economic
system are decisively influenced by their spatial coordinates. Any
equilibrium state also mirrors the underlying spatial structure and a
tatonnement process also incorporates the spatial ramifications of
consumer and producer behaviour. The recognition ofthe spatial element
in the formation of a general equilibrium in a complex space-economy
already dates back to early work of LOsch, Isard and Samuelson, but it
reached a stage of maturity thanks to the new inroads made by T.
Takayama. This book is devoted to spatial economic equilibrium (SPE)
analysis and is meant to pay homage to the founding father of modern
spatial economic thinking, Professor Takayama. This book witnesses his
great talents in clear and rigorous economic thinking regarding an area
where for decades many economists have been groping in the dark.
Everybody who wants to study the phenomenon of spatial economic
equilibrium will necessarily come across Takayama's work, but this
necessity is at the same time a great pleasure. Studying his work means
a personal scientific enrichment in a field which is still not
completely explored. The present volume brings together recent
contributions to spatial equilibrium analysis, written by friends and
colleagues of Takayama. The structure of the book is based on four main
uses of spatial equilibrium models: (i) the imbedding of spatial flows
in the economic environment, related to e.g.