Clusters in the institutional perspective: on the theory and methodology of local socioeconomic development

Abstract

This article addresses the problem of definition \nand identification of clusters as localised \nmesoeconomic systems with fuzzy \nboundaries that stimulate the development of \nthese systems. The author analyses the influence \nof the inductive approach to the formation \nof cluster theory and juxtaposes different \ntypologies of clusters and other types of localised \neconomic systems. The article offers an \noverview of the existing methodological approaches \nto the problem of cluster identification \nand emphasises the major role of institutional \ndimension in the identification (and \nfunctioning) of clusters, especially in comparison \nto cluster formation theory based on \nthe technological connection of adjacent \nunits. The author comes to a conclusion that, \nwithout the inclusion of institutional factors, \nalongside localising and technological ones \n(demonstrated through different variables), it \nis virtually impossible to develop an independent \ncluster theory, different from the general \nagglomeration theory. For the first time, \na hierarchy of institutions affecting the formation \nof local economic systems is considered \nagainst the background of the identification of \ninstitutional levels, whose full development \nmakes it possible to speak of the formation of \nclusters as most successful mesoeconomic systems. \nAt the same time, the author emphasises \nthat, in economies gravitating towards the \nmarket type of organisation, the development \nof mesoeconomic systems is closely connected \nto competition for innovative rent. The article \noutlines the methodology for cluster studies, \nwhich makes it possible to consider such relatively \nnew to the regional science phenomena \nas innovative and “transborder” clusters.

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