Growth Poles, Growth Centers and Politics: An Examination of their Roles in Development

Abstract

<p> This paper is a general examination of the applicability of the growth pole and the growth center concepts to development planning in underdeveloped nations. It is found that, because of the problems which are unique to each concept and the characteristics which are unique to each economic setting, the notions are not generally applicable. Analysis also suggests that the prime factor determining the success or failure of any development strategy is the political environment of the host country. The future does not appear to be particularly bright, due to the lack of progress with these growth notions and the existence of no real alternatives, and due to the political and institutional inertia prevalent within underdeveloped nations.</p>