What is the core-periphery model in spatial terms?

• A. A framework where peripheral regions concentrate political and economic power and attract investment.
• B. A framework where core regions concentrate political and economic power and attract investment, while peripheral regions lag in development and opportunities.
• C. A model where all regions have equal development.
• D. A policy focusing only on rural areas.

Answer: (B)

In space, development isn’t evenly spread; the core-periphery model captures how power and wealth concentrate in core regions while peripheral areas lag. Core regions concentrate political and economic power, attract investment, and host key institutions and infrastructure, which reinforces their growth and influence. Peripheral regions, by contrast, have less development, fewer opportunities, and weaker integration into markets, often relying on the core for capital and decision-making. This creates a unequal spatial pattern where the core pulls in resources while the periphery remains less developed. The other options miss this imbalance or misplace focus, describing equality or non-spatial policies.