Key Concepts in Geography: Globalization, Regions, and Political Boundaries

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness of people and places through converging economic, political, and cultural activities.

Globalization's Importance

Considered the most fundamental reorganization of the planet's socioeconomic structure since the Industrial Revolution.

The Physical Setting

The natural environment (geology, climate, etc.) that serves as the foundation for human activity.

Regional Geography

The study of world regions, noting that some regions (like Europe) are more globally influential than others.

Major World Regions

Key areas of study including Europe, North Africa, Southwest Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Pacific Realm.

Ethnic Culture

A culture based on shared ancestry, race, religion, or language, often with strong traditions and clear authority.

Amalgamation

The blending of international identities and stimuli, often leading to a 'world culture' with indeterminate nationality.

The Modern State

A concept originating in Europe where the 'state' (political entity) and 'nation' (shared identity) ideally coincide.

Ethnographic Boundary

A political border that follows cultural traits such as language or religion.

Geometric Boundary

A political border drawn using straight lines or grids, often ignoring cultural or physical features.

Centripetal Forces

Forces that unify a country and promote political unity, such as a shared religion or strong leadership.

Centrifugal Forces

Forces that weaken or divide a state, such as ethnic groups seeking independence (e.g., Quebec or the Basques).

United Nations (UN)

An international organization formed to promote international cooperation.

NATO

A military alliance consisting of European and North American countries.

Kyoto Protocol

An international agreement linked to the UN aimed at reducing global warming.

Core-Periphery Model

A model suggesting that some regions (the Core) are more influential and economically dominant than others (the Periphery).

Life Expectancy

A social indicator that measures the average length of life in a specific region.