GEOG110 Place
Place: Core Concept in Geography
Place is a central theme in geography, influencing various aspects of the field.
Definition of Place
A place is a specific point, position, or area of space. It varies in shape and size and can be scaled or nested within each other (e.g., lecture theatre within campus, city, country). Places are influenced by those around them.
Key Elements of Place
Consider these elements when studying a place:
Key components
Differences from other places
Processes leading to these differences
Why Places Matter
Places are unavoidable settings that influence the quality of life for current and future generations. They are dynamic, constantly changing and evolving through various processes. Places reflect individual and collective identities and hint at possible futures.
Place Making
Place making involves improving areas through:
City planning
Regional planning
Transport policies
Research and sustainability efforts
Geographical Perspective of Place
According to Tim Creswell, place is a location with meanings and attachments. Places emerge through spatial proximity, shaped by networks and connections. Tobler's first law of geography dictates closer entities are more related. Places are dynamic, offering opportunities for change to improve well-being. They are also often contested due to differing perspectives.
Location, Locale, and Sense of Place
Creswell breaks down place into:
Location: Exact coordinates, topography, climate.
Locale: Physical aspects like buildings, natural features, and population.
Sense of Place: Feelings and emotions evoked by a place.
Examples used in the lecture to help understand location, locale, and sense of place were Christchurch, Necker, and New York.
Matauranga Maori and Place
Place holds physical and spiritual connections in Maori culture. The pepeha, an introductory speech, emphasizes place, indicating its significance in Maori culture.
British settlement in Christchurch disregarded Maori knowledge, leading to planning issues. There's renewed interest in incorporating Maori culture in post-earthquake rebuilding.
Place Representations and Norms
Place Representations
Situated and partial portrayals influenced by perspective. Place representations shape our perceptions and actions, influencing favorability and stigmatization.
Place Norms
Acceptable behaviors in certain areas, impacting how welcome people feel. Norms can be culturally or socially informed, change over time, and can be contested based on legality or preferences. Some examples include cultural differences on eating with your hands and waiting in line. Furthermore, culturally different norms for women may change based on the region and who is in charge.
Space
Geographers view space in material and conceptual terms, closely linked with place. Contemporary geography sees spaces as dynamic with interactions between humans, animals, plants, and natural habitats.
Contemporary Geography
Focuses on urban public spaces like public squares, parks, and city streets, often highlighting conflicts over space. Perspective is informed by personal values and experiences.
Conclusion
Understanding the connection between people and places, as well as representation, norms, and the connection between space and place in different areas is important in human geography.