# Economic Geography Determinism

## Definition

The extent to which natural geographical features determine patterns of economic development, market extent, and the division of labour. Economic geography determinism suggests that physical location and natural advantages or disadvantages largely shape economic possibilities.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 3

## Context

Smith's argument that industry naturally begins where water-carriage provides market access, and only later extends to inland areas, demonstrates strong economic geography determinism, showing how natural features largely determine the sequence and extent of economic development.

## Economic Domain

General Theory

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