THEMES

1. Players (P)

Who are the different players (individuals, groups and organisations, stakeholders) involved in geographical issues and decisions (interdependence, globalisation, systems)? Why do some players have greater influence than others (inequality)? This includes: international players (intergovernmental organisations (IGOs)), national and local government, large and small private businesses, transnational corporations (TNCs), pressure groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as well as others in particular contexts.

2. Attitudes and actions (A)

Why do attitudes to geographical issues (identity) vary so greatly and how does this influence actions (policies and choice of strategy and management methods)? Influences on values and attitudes include identity, political and religious views, priority given to profit, importance of social justice and equality and attitudes towards the natural environment (conservation and sustainability versus exploitation).

3. Futures and uncertainties (F)

There are contrasting approaches when making decisions about geographical issues that will affect people in the future. These include business as usual, priority towards more sustainable strategies and radical alternatives (mitigation and adaptation). Choice of objective will affect both people and the environment in very different ways (risk, resilience and thresholds). The outcomes of choices made today are uncertain for a range of reasons, including scientific, demographic, economic and political uncertainty.