Rural Polycentricity Through Rhizomatic Thinking

Abstract

This paper proposes a conceptual and methodological framework for interpreting rural polycentric development thr ough the lens of rhizomatic thinking, explicitly grounded in the philosophy of Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari. Challenging conventional, hierarchical models, polycentri city is reframed as a non linear, relational, and emergent process in which spatial organization arises from interactions rather than predefined centers. Rural territories are conceptualized as adaptive networks shaped by continuous exchanges between actors, practices, flows, and me anings, often transcending administrative boundaries. Building on this theoretical foundation, the paper outlines a network based analytical approach for identifying emergent “communities of influence” through GIS supported spatial analysis and digital methodologies. By positioning rural planning as a knowledge trading zone between continental philosophy, spatial analysis, and computational tools, the st udy contributes to more inclusive, adaptive, and context sensitive understandings of polycentric territorial development.