History of Geographical Thought

The course studies the principal traits in the development of Geography from the past up to the present. It is important to have a degree of understanding of Geography’s development and traditions since this both strengthens one’s subject identity and provides an essential background for understanding current developments and fundamental discourses in the discipline today. The course is obligatory for students who wish to specialize in Geography and study for the MA in Geography.
In addition to lectures, seminars are arranged where students are given guidance and support in preparing a term paper. The term paper is prepared individually and submitted within a fixed deadline. The term paper must be approved before the written examination can be taken.

Knowledge: Students should obtain knowledge on the most influential epochs and schools in the history of Geography as a discipline. They should also obtain insight on the current status and position of the discipline.

Skills: Students should be able to compare the most significant geographers and traditions , and be able to discuss their influence on the discipline’s development and current status.

General competence: Students should obtain a broad understanding of the development of the discipline, its special character and its role in present time.

Teaching method and activities: 16 hours lectures, 4 hours seminar