AQA specification key terms

Causality

The act of one action being at least partially responsible for another, with the second being dependant on the first.

Systems

A set of interacting or interdependent components forming a whole.

Equilibrium

The state of a system when all competing influences are in balance.

Feedback

Either positive or negative, positive feedback amplifies a process, while negative feedback acts against it.

Inequality

The difference found in various measures of economic, social or political well-being between groups.

Representation

The description or portrayal of someone or something in a particular way.

Identity

The conception, qualities, beliefs, and expressions that make a person or group.

Globalisation

The growing interdependence between countries worldwide.

Interdependance

The degree to which things or people are mutually dependent on others.

Mitigation

Actions taken to reduce the severity, seriousness, or damage caused by something.

Adaptation

Altering behaviour and technologies in order to cope with change.

Sustainability

When the actions of today do not compromise the ability of future generations to carry out actions for similar purpose.

Risk

The probability of a hazard occurring, leading to loss of life and/or livelihood.

Resilience

The capacity to recover quickly from damage or difficulty.

Thresholds

The magnitude or intensity that must be exceeded for a certain outcome.