center-periphery
UK[ˈsɛntə pəˈrɪfəri]US[ˈsɛn(t)ər pəˈrɪfəri]
n
A model or concept describing the relationship between a dominant, influential core (center) and a subordinate, less developed outer region (periphery)
n
The structural relationship in systems (e.g., economic, political, cultural) where power, wealth, and innovation are concentrated at the center, while the periphery supplies resources and is dependent
Morpheme Breakdown
center
periphery
center
middle
periphery
outer boundary
Etymology
The compound term "center-periphery" is a modern analytical construct built from two ancient spatial concepts. "Center" originates from the Greek kéntron, meaning the fixed point of a compass, which evolved in Latin to signify the middle of a circle. "Periphery" combines the Greek prefix peri- (around) with the root pherein (to carry), conceptually describing a line carried around a center to form a circumference. In the 20th century, these concrete geometrical terms were abstracted by social scientists, particularly in dependency theory and world-systems analysis, to model unequal power dynamics. The logic of the term thus extends from literal spatial geometry to metaphorically describe structures of dominance and dependence in global political economy.
Analysis
Structure: center (middle) + periphery (outer boundary)
- center: From Latin centrum (center, point of a circle), from Greek kéntron (sharp point, stationary point of a compass). Functions as the core noun denoting the central point.
- periphery: From Latin peripheria, from Greek peripheréia (circumference, outer surface), from peri- (around) + pherein (to carry, bear). Functions as the noun denoting the outer boundary or surrounding area.
Examples
The center-periphery model is often used to analyze economic inequalities between developed and developing nations.
In this network, a few hub cities form the center, while the vast rural areas remain the periphery.
Cultural diffusion often flows from the center to the periphery, though reverse influences also occur.