ABSTRACT
In the fi nal chapter of the fi rst version of this textbook it was concluded that a certain convergence has come about between the large groups of theories discussed. Diversifi ed-relational space theories, in particular those of (endogenous) local development, merge together ideas put forward by the theories of development and of location. Diversifi ed-stylized space theories (in particular new economic geography) amalgamate growth and location theories ( Figure I.2 ). At that time, the impression was that still required was the further step forward that would produce an approach combining the economic laws and mechanisms that explain growth on the one hand, with the territorial features that spring from the intrinsic relationality present at local level on the other. Such an approach would represent the maximum of cross-fertilization among location theory, development theory and macroeconomic growth theories; a synthesis that would bring out the territorial micro-foundations of macroeconomic growth models.
