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Non-Representational Theory: Key Ideas in Geography

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Non-representational Theory (Key Ideas in Geography)

by Paul Simpson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7305 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	266 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

Non-representational theory (NRT) is a theoretical approach that challenges the idea that geographical knowledge is a representation of the real world. Instead, NRT argues that geographical knowledge is produced through social and cultural processes and is always partial and incomplete.

NRT has its roots in post-structuralist and post-modernist thought. Post-structuralism argues that there is no such thing as a single, objective reality. Instead, reality is constructed through language and discourse. Post-modernism argues that the world is characterized by fragmentation, diversity, and difference. These ideas have led NRT geographers to reject the idea that geographical knowledge can be a neutral and objective representation of the world.

NRT geographers argue that geographical knowledge is always produced from a particular perspective. This perspective is shaped by the social and cultural context in which the knowledge is produced. As a result, geographical knowledge is always partial and incomplete. It can only ever represent a particular perspective on the world.

NRT has been used to challenge a wide range of geographical concepts, including space, place, and landscape. NRT geographers have argued that these concepts are not fixed and objective, but are instead produced through social and cultural processes.

For example, NRT geographers have argued that space is not a neutral container for human activity, but is instead a social and cultural construct. Space is produced through the ways in which people interact with each other and with their environment. It is shaped by power relations, social norms, and cultural values.

Similarly, NRT geographers have argued that place is not a fixed and unchanging entity, but is instead a constantly changing process. Place is produced through the ways in which people experience and interact with their environment. It is shaped by personal experiences, memories, and emotions.

NRT has also been used to challenge the concept of landscape. NRT geographers have argued that landscape is not a passive backdrop for human activity, but is instead an active force in shaping human lives. Landscape is produced through the ways in which people interact with their environment. It is shaped by human activities, such as agriculture, forestry, and mining.

NRT has been a major influence on geography in recent years. It has challenged many of the traditional assumptions of the discipline and has opened up new ways of thinking about space, place, and landscape.

Key Ideas in Non-Representational Theory

The following are some of the key ideas in non-representational theory:

There is no such thing as a single, objective reality. Reality is constructed through language and discourse.
Geographical knowledge is always produced from a particular perspective. This perspective is shaped by the social and cultural context in which the knowledge is produced.
Geographical knowledge is always partial and incomplete. It can only ever represent a particular perspective on the world.
Space, place, and landscape are not fixed and objective concepts. They are instead produced through social and cultural processes.

Non-representational theory is a complex and challenging theoretical approach. However, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about geography. NRT challenges us to question our assumptions about the world and to recognize the ways in which our knowledge is shaped by our social and cultural context.

NRT is not a theory that provides easy answers. However, it is a theory that can help us to understand the world in new and more complex ways.

Non-representational Theory (Key Ideas in Geography)

by Paul Simpson

5 out of 5