Abstract: Based on the knowledge and understanding of stability, this paper establishes an evaluation index system and an evaluation model of stability of basin economic system from the aspects of stability elements such as pressure, sensitivity, and system response, and analyzes the stability evolution characteristics of basin economic system of Songhua River in Jilin province. The results are given as follows. Firstly, the pressure of basin economic system of Songhua River in Jilin Province has obvious spatial differentiation characteristics. Secondly, the internal structures and functions of economic systems in Jilin city, Songyuan city, and Baicheng city are not reasonable, which implies low level of economic structure of the Songhua River basin in Jilin Province. Thirdly, the response of basin economic system of Songhua River in Jilin Province shows a feature of gradually decreasing from upstream to downstream. Finally, the stability of basin economic system of Songhua River in Jilin Province shows a center-periphery feature, and the differences between the regions are constantly expanding, especially the difference between Changchun city and Baicheng city. It will be very important for the process of economic development in future to consolidate the dominant position of the core cities in the basin, accelerate the economic development of the marginal cities in the basin, pay attention to the quality and efficiency of economic development, and avoid further widening the gap.

Key words: stability, basin economic system, Songhua River in Jilin province