ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the theoretical foundations of Gravity and spatial interaction models. It focuses on diverse syntheses of regional science methods. It details such syntheses, in the integration and fusion of methods, that great progress in regional science will be scored. The book provides application of models stemming from a conceptual mathematical formulation of an advanced economy — the Walrasian general equilibrium system. It discusses basic industry location principles as well as applications of the standard comparative cost approach. The book examines the relevant basic elements of econometrics has been organized having in mind the needs of regional science graduate students and researchers who have not been formally trained in this area. The term econometrics is misleading since formal testing and careful examination of forecasts is an activity fundamental to all science.
