Spatial Economic Analysis in Data-Rich Environments

Controlling for spatial effects in micro-level studies of consumer and producer behaviour necessitates a range of analytical modifications. These range from modest changes in data collection and the definition of variables to dramatic changes in the modelling of consumer and producer decision-making. This paper discusses conceptual, empirical and data issues involved in modelling the spatial aspects of economic behaviour in data-rich environments. Attention is given to established and emerging agricultural economic applications of spatial data and spatial econometric methods at the micro-scale. Recent applications of individual and household data are featured, including models of land-use change at the urban-rural interface, agricultural land values, and technological change and technology adoption. Copyright 2007 The Agricultural Economics Society.