Cumulative Causation
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
A theory proposed by Gunnar Myrdal, stating that there are self-reinforcing circular processes in economic development. Initial advantages are continuously amplified through mechanisms such as agglomeration effects and economies of scale, leading to developed regions becoming more developed and backward regions becoming more backward.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
Analysis of uneven development. It explains why market forces may exacerbate rather than mitigate regional development imbalances. In policy-making, it supports active regional policies (such as transfer payments, infrastructure investment) to break vicious cycles.
Anchor fast decisions
Myrdal pointed out that economic development has self-reinforcing cycles: initial advantages are continuously amplified through agglomeration effects, economies of scale, etc., leading to developed regions becoming more developed and backward regions more backward, forming path-dependent polarization.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/4Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positive_feedbackverified
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