The concept describes the disproportionate increase in overall economic activity resulting from an initial injection of spending. For example, constructing a new factory creates jobs directly for construction workers. These workers then spend their earnings, increasing demand for goods and services in the local economy, thereby creating additional employment and income for others. This indirect economic stimulus is the core of the concept.
Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing regional development and urban growth patterns. Policies aimed at attracting new industries or investing in infrastructure are often evaluated based on their potential to generate this positive economic ripple effect. Historically, large-scale government projects have intentionally leveraged this phenomenon to stimulate stagnant economies.