Core—Periphery Relationships of Resource-Based Communities

Abstract

Core—periphery theory explains processes by which decision making in rural resource-based communities becomes dominated by urban centers. Urban cores have the advantages of centrality, synergism, and recombination. Data from Oregon communities and counties for the period 1949 to 1989 show dramatic change in the relative incomes between urban centers and rural resource-based communities at the periphery. Coping strategies for resource-based communities include forming cartels, becoming self-sufficient, promoting community sustainability, establishing a harmony of interest with urban cores, and changing community identity. Altering the structural advantages of urban cores is, however, very difficult.