Central Place Theory Ryan Cobelli Central Place Theory

Central Place Theory Ryan Cobelli

Central Place Theory • CPT is a geographical theory that seeks to explain the number, size and location of settlements in an urban system. • Created by Walter Christaller

CPT Assumes • Abstract space (flat and limitless) • Evenly distributed population/resources • All settlements exist in equal lattice (triangle) pattern • Perfect competition (no excess profits, equal buying power, common sense) • Humans are reasonable

CPT Asserts • Most efficient for settlement location is lattice (triangle/hexagon) pattern • • • 3 Principals (known as K values) • K=3 Marketing • K=4 Transportation/Traffic • K=7 Administrative 5 Community Sizes • • Provides no overlap Hamlet, Village, Town, City, Regional Capital Settlements are just 'central place' for surrounding areas

CPT Explained • Place a lattice pattern over a flat space • Make a settlement (of the sizes listed) at the intersections • K Value • Systems increment based on K value • EX: Marketing (K=3) • 2 Cities • 6 Towns • 18 Villages • 54 Hamlets

CPT History • Developed as standard relationship between cities and "suburbs" • Created for economic reasons • Began development in 1933

CPT Flaws • The world isn't flat (��) • People aren't reasonable • Economic status isn't considered • Population density isn't considered

Central Place Theory • Works well here

Central Place Theory • Not here