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In-Depth Information
also Rose et al. ( 2014 )]. And indeed, Isard was able to include in regional science
the notion of ecology in a very innovative way, by addressing the spatial-ecological
interfaces from two angles: (1) he was able to incorporate environmental
externalities (e.g., air pollutants, water pollutants) systematically in regional and
interregional input-output analysis, based on Leontief's seminal contributions to
input-output analysis. But Isard did not only include environmental flow data, but
was also able to relate production and consumption flows to environmental capital
data [see Isard ( 1972 )]; (2) he was also aware of the conflictual nature of economic
objectives and environmental (and in broader sense, resource) objectives. In this
regard, the use of multi-objective decision theory was seen by him as an important
analytical instrument to map out and to understand conflicts and discrepancies in
regional or urban policy strategies. His orientation towards conflict management
and peace research in later stages of his career can well be understood from the
great many dilemma's in regional and urban policy-making.
The interfaces between regional science and ecological science have extensively
been studied by Isard in various topics and many articles. And also in this context,
he was able to combine his rigorous analytical insights with topical issues at that
time, such as air pollution or water pollution (Isard and van Zele 1975 ). It is
interesting to note that in his integrated regional-ecological analysis, he was not
only addressing environmental effects of regional production or consumption
patterns, but also the implications of introducing policy handles (e.g., pollution
abatement programmes). This approach led also to a solid analysis framework with
an applied orientation in regional science.
The real-world space-economy comprises indeed a system of open regions, with
different degrees of accessibility and connectivity. Spatial unevenness is conse-
quently a necessary constituency in regional science. To understand the fundamen-
tal and often persistent causes of spatial disparities is a great challenge. Isard has
offered a great intellectual contribution to comprehensive insights into the complex
mechanisms shaping regional developments and spatial imbalances. At the same
time, he also looked into policy and intervention tools so as to cope with undesir-
able spatial evolutionary processes. His work was both driven by scholarly curiosity
(or serendipity) and real-world concern. He has been a role model for regional
scientists all over the globe.
1.5
The Menu of This Volume
The menu of this volume has been composed and prepared by former university
colleagues, general professional colleagues, and students of Walter Isard from all
over the globe. Several of the papers were presented at sessions in memory of
Walter at the North American Regional Science Council (NARSC) Meetings in
2012 and 2013, organized by Tschangho John Kim, Marcus Berliant, and Adam
Rose. In addition, many of the co-authors include a new generation of regional
scientists, indicating Walter's reach over time. We note the popular concept of “6
Degrees of Separation” that contends everyone is connected within six
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