What is Central Place Theory?
Central Place Theory is a geographical theory that seeks to explain the spatial distribution of settlements, the amount of goods and services supplied, and the number of people who use them. It was developed by the German geographer Walter Christaller in 1933. The theory states that settlements will form a hierarchical pattern of centralized places with each place providing a different mix of goods and services to satisfy the needs of people in the surrounding area.
The Key Components of Central Place Theory
Central Place Theory is composed of two main components: the range of goods and services available and the size of the market. A good or service is considered to have a range if it can be obtained within a certain distance from the place of production or purchase. The size of the market is the number of people within that distance who can use the good or service.
Examples of Central Place Theory in Action
Central Place Theory can be seen in urban planning as cities and towns are often built in a hierarchical pattern with a central area providing a greater range of goods and services than the surrounding areas. For example, a city may have a downtown area that offers a variety of shopping and entertainment options, while the suburbs provide more basic services such as grocery stores and pharmacies. Central Place Theory can also be seen in rural areas, where smaller towns often provide basic services such as grocery stores, banks, and post offices, while larger cities provide more specialized services such as universities and hospitals.
Conclusion
Central Place Theory is a useful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of settlements and the range of goods and services they provide. By understanding the components of the theory, it is possible to see how the pattern of settlements and the range of goods and services they provide are related.