Tropical colonization. Some important research issues and their wider implications

Abstract

In the article tropical colonization is highlighted as an imminent research issue. Questions are asked as to which themes are particularly valid to inquire into in the research process, listing environmental, migrational, occupational and infrastructural problems. This discussion, which is linked to theory, particularly theory of disequilibrium in spatial development, is illustrated using empirical data from a research project in Peru. By way of conclusion a change in economic policy toward agriculture in general and new priorities in the use of tropical resources in particular are advocated.