Regional econimic diversity: Action, concept, or state of confusion

Economic diversity has been promoted as a means to achieve the goals of stability and growth. However, the link between diversity, diversification and economic performance depends on the differences, both conceptually and empirically, between diversity and diversification. Unfortunately, the literature contains varying definitions of diversity and diversification. I propose two key points in defining diversity. First, it is a static concept. Second, it examines the size, the presence of multiple specializations, and the linkages present among industries within a region's economy. A brief review of diversity measures is used to discuss measuring diversity relative to some standard, as an explanatory variable in examining growth and stability, and other issues. No one diversity measure is critique free; care should be taken when using a diversity measure as the only factor in a policy designed to change the structure of a region's economy, given the goals of growth and stability.