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Does World City Network Research Need Eigenvectors?

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  • Zachary Neal

Abstract

In a 2011 paper, I introduced the conceptual distinction between positions of centrality and power in world city networks and offered a new measure—now called alter-based centrality—designed to quantify the network positions of cities. Here, I respond to some conceptual and mathematical critiques of those ideas raised by Boyd et al . (2013) in their Comment on Neal (2011). On the conceptual side, I clarify the definitions of centrality and power, the relevance of exchange power in world city networks and the appropriate depth of network measures in this context. On the mathematical side, I clarify the relationship between alter-based centrality and other measures, and explore the limitations of two alternatives: eigenvector and beta centrality. This Reply concludes by noting that each measure has its own strengths and weaknesses, but that researchers should aim to use measures that are no more complex than necessary.

Suggested Citation

  • Zachary Neal, 2013. "Does World City Network Research Need Eigenvectors?," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 50(8), pages 1648-1659, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:50:y:2013:i:8:p:1648-1659
    DOI: 10.1177/0042098013477702
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. John Friedmann, 1986. "The World City Hypothesis," Development and Change, International Institute of Social Studies, vol. 17(1), pages 69-83, January.
    2. Martin Cihak & Sonia Munoz & Ryan Scuzzarella, 2012. "The Bright and the Dark Side of Cross-Border Banking Linkages," Czech Journal of Economics and Finance (Finance a uver), Charles University Prague, Faculty of Social Sciences, vol. 62(3), pages 200-225, July.
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    Cited by:

    1. Gioacchino DE CANDIA, 2015. "Accessibility to Nodes of Interest: Demographic Weighting the Logistic Model," Expert Journal of Economics, Sprint Investify, vol. 3(3), pages 155-160.

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