Manufacturing: A Study of Industrial Location

This book provides a theoretical and empirical foundation for the study of industrial location. There is thus an attempt to analyze and interpret from both a theoretical and an empirical viewpoint the diverse forces that shape spatial industrial patterns. A dynamic approach is utilized to analyze the development of industrial theory through time and the way in which locational patterns change over time. The author begins with the classical location theories of Weber, Losch, and others, in which the partial equilibrium approach prevails. This is followed by an evaluation of the attempts to evolve a general equilibrium theory. Because the partial equilibrium theories have proved to be too simplistic and the general equilibrium theory too complex to provide models to explain reality, Dr. Miller analyzes and interprets the modern theories that prevail today.

If the objectives of industrial location theorists in providing spatial models that could be applied to explain real-world locations had been achieved, the need for building empirical models based on the factors of industrial location would have been lessened. However, empirical models are needed, not only to test theory, but also to advance the understanding of real-world situations. As a consequence, the author has placed emphasis on the factors of localization as they directly influence the spatial patterns of manufacturing in the world.

The first two parts of the book provide the theoretical and empirical framework for the study of industrial location. A logical progression is to utilize this material in the analysis and interpretation of the localization of selected industries. Because the study of selected industries should be grounded in reality, the material on the individual industries depends heavily on empirical information. Nevertheless, any analysis that reflects complex spatial relationships must have a theoretical abstract model as a requisite ingredient.