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Does closeness in virtual space complement urban space?

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  • Craig, Steven G.
  • Hoang, Edward C.
  • Kohlhase, Janet E.

Abstract

The rapid growth of the internet poses a challenge for understanding how cities will grow in the future. An advantage of the internet is that groups can be close, in terms of interactions, without being close in physical space. Thus the internet may substitute for urban areas. Or the internet may increase the extent and scope of interactions so that the internet complements physical closeness. We compare the two possibilities, and using data from US states show that urban areas increase the per-capita demand for internet access, suggesting a complementary relation. The complementarity emanates more from consumers than producers.

Suggested Citation

  • Craig, Steven G. & Hoang, Edward C. & Kohlhase, Janet E., 2017. "Does closeness in virtual space complement urban space?," Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Elsevier, vol. 58(C), pages 22-29.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:soceps:v:58:y:2017:i:c:p:22-29
    DOI: 10.1016/j.seps.2016.11.002
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    2. Jianshuang Fan & Yuanjia Wang & Lin Zhou & Luyuan Xu & Ziqi Wang, 2025. "Can digital economy reshape urban spatial structure? Evidence from the perspective of urban sprawl," The Annals of Regional Science, Springer;Western Regional Science Association, vol. 74(3), pages 1-42, September.
    3. Dany Vyt & Magali Jara & Olivier Mevel & Thierry Morvan & Nélida Morvan, 2022. "The impact of convenience in a click and collect retail setting: A consumer-based approach," Post-Print halshs-03624658, HAL.
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    5. Zhao, Xiaoyang & Weng, Zongyuan, 2024. "Digital dividend or divide: The digital economy and urban entrepreneurial activity," Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Elsevier, vol. 93(C).

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