Economic area theory as the basis of research agglomeration and cluster development of modern economies

The article analyzed the main provisions of the economic theory of space. Presents the key features of the formation and development Russian economic space. It is concluded that the presence of opposing trends in the approaches to spatial regulation. Disclose the effect of the economic theories of space on the formation and development of modern forms of territorial organization of the productive forces (agglomerations, clusters). Conclusions on the need for a balanced regulation of spatial differentiation based on the economic space rationalization.