Exploring the Relationship Between Rural Development and Marginalization: An Empirical Study from Linhai City, Zhejiang Province, China

The study focuses on the multidimensional attributes of rural marginalization and their differentiated impact on rural development levels. Based on a systematic review and summary of research findings, this study elucidates the conceptual implications of rural development levels and rural marginalization and deconstructs rural marginalization into five dimensions. Considering Linhai City in Zhejiang Province, China, as the research object, a measurement model for rural development levels was constructed comprising basic and enhancement factors. An influencing factor set was established based on the perspective of marginalization. Spatial autocorrelation and multiscale geographically weighted regression models were comprehensively employed to measure and analyze rural development levels and their influencing factors. The main findings are as follows: (1) the concept of rural marginalization is defined from five dimensions: spatial, technological, policy, social, and infrastructural, and a quantitative evaluation system is established; (2) through quantitative analysis using Linhai City as an example, it is found that the influence of marginalization across different dimensions on rural development exhibits significant spatial variability, meaning that the impact of marginalization on rural development levels is influenced by multiple factors. These findings suggest that, while formulating rural development policies, we should fully consider the actual and external circumstances of different villages, adopt tailored strategies based on local conditions, and avoid implementing one-size-fits-all policies.