121-229 Geographical Thought

Students who have completed 121-228 Critical Human Geography are not eligible to enrol in this subject. All BSc students, except those enrolled in the BA/BSc combined course and the BASc course, can only receive credit at the 200-level for this subject.

Usually 25 points of first year geography or the discretion of the subject coordinators.

This subject is concerned with the history and philosophy of geography and is designed to introduce students to key debates, both past and present, on the nature and scope of geography as an academic discipline. It therefore sets out an essential context for understanding contemporary research in human and physical geography. The early origins of the subject are traced back to the revolutionary intellectual climate of Enlightenment and empire, a time when geographical knowledge constituted a form of both scientific enquiry and military intelligence. The major episodes in the history of geography - from Darwinism to postmodernism - are discussed in relation to wider political and cultural developments. Specific topics covered include the history of exploration; the relationship between human and physical geography; and the role of geography in the nation-state. Students who complete this subject will be able to think critically about different schools of geographical thought; be able to evaluate theoretical concepts from geography and elsewhere; and be able to demonstrate an understanding of the dynamic and contested nature of the discipline.

• acquire critical reading skills;

• be capable of thinking, writing and speaking in the theoretical terms;

• gain written communication skills;

• develop presentation skills.

An essay of 3000 words 65% (due at the end of semester), practical presentation comprising oral performance 10% (during the semester) and literature review paper of 1000 words 25% (due mid-semester).