Non-linear evolution of dynamic spatial systems. The relevance of chaos and ecologically-based models

This paper serves two purposes. First, it aims to offer a comprehensive and critical overview of recent developments in the field of non-linear dynamic models, with particular relevance for spatial systems. Starting from a methodological review of central concepts of chaos theory and related modelling attempts, the paper reviews possible evolutions of dynamic spatial systems known from the literature (such as self-organizing systems and Lotka-Volterra models), by investigating in particular the relevance of chaos theory for (spatial) economics. Next, the paper shows that recent developments in dynamic ecological modelling provide an elegant integrative framework for various popular (spatial) economic models (e.g. logistic growth models, spatial competition models). Therefore, ecological approaches based on niche theory and competition models are dealt with from the viewpoint of the possibility of chaotic behaviour. Some simulation results are added as well in order to illustrate the arguments. The paper concludes with further reflections on new research directions which need to be developed in regional science.