Economic Network Analysis: Theoretical Evolution, Empirical Progress, and Implications for Regional Development

Abstract

With the deepening of globalization and informatization, economic activities are increasingly breaking through traditional geographical and administrative boundaries. The relational patterns between cities and regions are undergoing a profound transformation from a "hierarchical system" to a "network structure." Economic network analysis, as a cutting-edge perspective integrating geography, economics, and sociology, provides a new analytical framework for understanding the dynamic mechanisms of regional economic growth. This paper aims to systematically review the theoretical foundations, empirical methods, and key research findings in the field of economic network analysis. The literature indicates a general trend in urban networks evolving from monocentric to polycentric, from administration-dominated to market-driven, and from loose to tight. Furthermore, network connectivity has a significant positive effect on economic growth, with spatial heterogeneity in its impact. Finally, this paper points out the current research challenges in theoretical integration, methodological innovation, data acquisition, and scale linkage. It also provides an outlook on future research directions, aiming to offer more solid theoretical support for China's regional coordinated development strategy.