Our world is continuously changing as new technologies are developed, demographic patterns evolve and new social and political configurations emerge. However, most people would agree that, not unlike the time of the Industrial Revolution, the rate of change has accelerated over the last few decades. It is certainly the case of many economic activities, where the trend towards globalization, supported by a faster diffusion of knowledge and information, economies of scale, the opening of borders and improved transport networks, has induced a spatial redistribution of production and ownership. Until recently, the concomitant economic growth eased the way towards the necessary reorganization, but, at the same time, created additional environmental and transport problems. This phenomenon is pervasive all around the globe, but it particularly affects the European continent, which is still fragmented by administrative, cultural and linguistic differences, national boundaries and rivalries. In this context, the slow, but persistent drive towards market integration and deregulation makes Europe an extraordinary laboratory for politicians, economic researchers and especially for transport analysts.
Advances in Spatial Science
This series of books is dedicated to reporting on recent advances in spatial science. It contains scientific studies focusing on spatial phenomena, utilising theoretical frameworks, analytical methods, and empirical procedures specifically designed for spatial analysis. The series brings together innovative spatial research utilising concepts, perspectives, and methods with a relevance to both basic science and policy making. The aim is to present advances in spatial science to an informed readership in universities, research organisations, and policy-making institutions throughout the world.
The type of material considered for publication in the series includes:
- Monographs of theoretical and applied research in spatial science;
- State-of-the-art volumes in areas of basic research;
- Reports of innovative theories and methods in spatial science;
- Tightly edited reports form specially organised research seminars.
Manuscripts must be prepared in accordance with the guidelines for authors and editors that may be obtained from Springer-Verlag. Manuscripts considered for the series will be reviewed by independent experts to ensure their originality, scientific level, and international policy relevance.
