How Much Geography in Kant’s Critical Project?

Abstract

In this paper we will address the following points: (1) we will question the geneal belief that Kant’s philosophical approach has a geographical character, by showing how critical philosophy and physical geography establish, in their respective systems, two inverse relationships between the rational and the aesthetic form of spatiality; (2) we will argue that cartography still plays a role in the realization of a scientific system of cognition, and that this role consists in guiding this very realization; (3) lastly, we will develop the hypothesis that the map of the cognitive faculties, exemplified by the transcendental topic, is part of a device aimed at keeping the subject from the adventures of thought typical of dogmatism.

Keywords

• Immanuel Kant. Physical Geography. Spatiality. System. Transcendental illusion