On the Basis of the Integration of Physical Geography and Human Geography: A Response to the Article by Christian Kesteloot and Lorenzo Bagnoli

Abstract

Inspired by the article co-authored by Christian Kesteloot and Lorenzo Bagnoli, this paper proposes three bases for the integration of physical geography and human geography. First, the ontologies faced by the two academic groups need to be close; second, the two academic groups must embrace each other's methodology; and third, the organization of scientific research operation should be conducive to integration. In order to better demonstrate these three integration bases, this paper considers the case of color control in the central city of Beijing, and analyzes the difference research approaches of physical geographers and human geographers when they face this practical issue in the absence of these three bases, as well as trends in their divergence.

Keywords

• physical geography
• human geography
• discipline branch fusion
• ontology
• methodology