Relatore: dott. Luigi Capoani

PhD Student - Department of Economics and Statistics (DISES), University of Salerno

Abstract

This article presents a bibliographic review of the gravitational model in International Trade since its origins by Newton’s physical model. First, the concept of gravity in commerce introduced by Isard (1954) and its original meaning in relation and diversity to the Tinbergen’s standard gravitational model and to Tobler’s first law of geography, will be introduced. Secondly, we will move to its theoretical roots in International Economics, analyzing the several authors up to the most recent ones. Once again, we are looking at how the tool developed in physics can say something about Economics; in particular, I will try to keep the econophysical approach of this model. In this critical sense wide space will be given to the examination of the main developments of the gravitational model and their authors, including in particular McCallum, Anderson and Van Wincoop, Krugman, Tranos and Nijkamp. Analyzing how the various authors over the years, have preserved the initial idea of Isard's physical approach to the matter.

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