ART101 Wk2 lecture

Introduction to Geography

  • Welcome to Geography Week at UBSC.

  • Dr. Theresa Ashford, specialized in geography and sustainability.

  • Background in geography from Canadian universities: University of Victoria (BSc) and Simon Fraser University (MSc).

  • PhD from University of Queensland focusing on human technology and ethics.

  • Emphasizes a passion for travel, cultures, and environmental awareness.

Overview of Geography

  • Geography connects various disciplines and provides a unique lens to study the world.

  • Encourages an appreciation for different cultures and environments.

  • Bridges gaps between physical and human geography, showcasing interdisciplinary studies.

  • Discussion about what geographers do, including diverse research areas such as cultural studies, environmental monitoring, etc.

Key Concepts in Geography

  • Definitions of geography can be broad but encompass:

    • Spatial sciences: the study of place, space, and environment.

    • Scale: examining global to local issues.

    • The Anthropocene: a central concept highlighting human impact on Earth’s systems.

    • Distribution of phenomena and processes as core geographical concerns.

Relation to Other Disciplines

  • Geography interacts with social sciences and the sciences, enhancing understanding in a BA program.

  • Benefits of a multidisciplinary approach and careers stemming from a geography education.

Anthropocene

  • The Anthropocene is a term used to describe the current geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems.

  • Challenges arising from anthropogenic changes, with a focus on climate change and environmental degradation.

  • Importance of adapting and mitigating human practices moving forward.

Geography's Historical Perspective

  • Ancient tradition of geography explored since Hippocrates in 400 BC, examining the relationship between humans and their environment.

  • Notable quotes and theories have emerged across decades highlighting geography's evolution and relevance.

    • Reference to Strawler's 1975 thoughts on the reciprocal relationship between humans and the environment.

Research and Exploration in Geography

  • Current emphasis on planetary systems and the repercussions of human actions as highlighted in recent studies (e.g., Richardson et al., 2023).

  • The need for further exploration in environmental sciences and sustainability practices.

Exploring Geography through Culture

  • Geography is interwoven with cultural narratives: examples from literature, social media, and community interactions.

  • Identifying geography in various contexts, from urban environments to ecological settings.

Practical Applications of Geography

  • Understanding and adapting to environmental and social changes is becoming increasingly crucial.

  • Importance of community and relational practices in geography.

  • Emphasizes recognition of spatial dynamics in daily life.

Conclusion

  • Geography as a discipline empowers us to critically understand our world.

  • Engages with complex systems while urging an appreciation for diversity and change.

  • Advocates for sensitivity toward both human and non-human elements in geographic studies.

  • Encouragement to explore the suggested reading on human and physical geography for deeper insights into the discipline.