The Impact of the Evolution of the International Trade Network on Economic Development

Tim Kastelle
University of Queensland

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     Last modified: May 4, 2007

Abstract
This paper looks at the evolution of the international trade network from 1938 to 2003. It uses complex network analysis to look for evidence of economic convergence. The fundamental structure of the network remains essentially the same over this period, which does not support the contention that the economy is converging to a steady state. Rather, it appears to be best described as a complex system which is in a constant state of transformation. The measure of betweenness centrality is used to develop a model of economic development.