Contemporary Geographical Thought (GEOG90018)

This subject is concerned with the history and philosophy of geography and is designed to introduce students to key debates, both past and present, on the nature and scope of geography as an academic discipline. It therefore sets out an essential context for understanding contemporary research in human and physical geography, as well for understanding the nature of interdisciplinary research. Students who complete this subject will be able to think critically about different schools of geographical thought; be able to evaluate theoretical concepts from geography and elsewhere; and be able to demonstrate an understanding of the dynamic and contested nature of the discipline. Students will also gain insights into a selected issue at the leading-edge of contemporary geographical research. Finally, via a seminar diary, students will critically evaluate how contemporary geographic research is communicated via research seminars within the School and, where relevant, in other schools/departments of the university.