Theoretical and methodological aspects of the identification and delimitation of peripheral areas

Abstract

This article focuses on the topic of the polarisation of space. Its objective is to give a basic overview of the theoretical and methodological aspects of research on peripheral areas and to discuss selected aspects. Attention is given to the concept of polarisation of space as a central theoretical point of departure in studying peripheral areas. In the second section, attention is directed at defining the terms marginality/ peripherality and marginal/peripheral areas. The meaning of these terms is understood differently by many authors. As part of the issue of evaluating the polarisation of space, central methodological problems, which can be encountered in specific empirical studies, are discussed.