ABSTRACT
Only recently have geographers begun to formulate a view of the state as playing a dual role in regional systems, shaping and being shaped by the complex processes of interdependent development (Dear and Clark, 1978; Carney, Hudson and Lewis, 1980). Already, however, it can be demonstrated that such a perspective is indispensable for understanding regional development in most advanced and many newly emerging nations. Conceptions of the state as a mere adjunct of the national space-economy, as immutable, as benign, or as an apolitical advocate of the general welfare, are inadequate. Rather it must be seen at least potentially as a vehicle for the expression of powerful interests (Fainstein and Fainstein, 1978a), and as a central institution of considerable reach (ACIR, 1980-1; Johnston, 1980), capable of sustaining major national and multinational corporations. (Holland, 1976; Pred, 1976; 1977; Malecki, 1979), of managing internal affairs, and of governing relations with other nations, relations which may produce differential effects among internal regions (McConnell, 1980).
