Geography Matters

Geography matters in the twenty-first century. It is a misnomer that geography is exclusively the memorization of states and capitals, GIS (geographical information systems) or consumer-driven products like GPS or Google Maps. Technology alone cannot replace the crucial role that geography has in explaining and shaping contemporary globalization.  These types of maps are important tools for spatial analysis but geography is so much more... 

Geography focuses on:

• location analysis  

• place characteristics 

• the production of space

• human-environmental interaction

• human movement and diffusion of ideas and cultures

• political and economic relationships across space

• and yes, mapping. 

We need to understand  places and the relationships among people and their environments. We need a global awareness that includes familiarity with different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles in order to solve global problems at local and regional levels. 

Geography helps us understand global-local ('glocal') problems through theoretical and applied research. Geography frames critical thinking and problem-solving skills through a uniquely spatial perspective.

Furthermore, geography is fundamental to putting international relations into proper context. The International Studies Association (ISA) and the Oxford University Press provide a solid explanation of geography's relationship with international studies. 

My particular geographic interests are with how the global political economy affects the natural environment. I like to focus on issues UN's Sustainable Development Goals at a variety of geographic scales.  I work within the paradigms of political economy and political ecology. More recently, I have become interested in the theory and application of critical physical geography.

I teach and research geography at Columbus State University.  If you are a student, I hope that you will take the opportunity to explore the world with me through an on-campus or a study abroad course!