The Diverse Powers of Urban–Rural Linkages: A Growth-Critical Review

Abstract

This article examines urban–rural linkages from a growth-critical perspective to identify their diverse powers for ensuring sustainable futures. While urban–rural linkages are a well-established object of study and have been considered from various perspectives, they have historically been viewed through a growth-oriented lens, reinforcing binary thinking regarding the economy and society. We propose that a growth-critical perspective on the economy can provide valuable insight into the societal impacts of economic activities induced by urban–rural linkages. To this end, we draw on Gibson-Graham's (1997) and Lee's (2006) conceptualisations of the economy to critically engage with the literature on urban–rural linkages. We suggest three avenues for future research on urban–rural linkages: (1) discourses as drivers of change, (2) the integration of society and economy, and (3) power relations. Through this approach, we aim to bridge the gap between growth-critical perspectives on the economy and research on urban–rural linkages, paving the way for future studies in the field.