We’re Right, They’re Wrong, Regional Science Is Where It’s At

Regional science is highly relevant in assessing issues that tangibly impact our lives. Conversely, economics is so fixated on mathematical rigor that it does not have the impact on policy that it should. Similar constructive criticisms apply to geography. To illustrate how regional scientists are more “grounded,” three examples show how their analysis can defeat popular misconceptions held by the media: (1) the role of energy resources in explaining Alberta’s long run growth; (2) how the largest U.S. cities are not growing increasingly more dominant; and (3) how considering American high poverty clusters can help inform international poverty research.