Characteristics of the Times, Dichotomy and Sustainable Development of Geography

Abstract

Geography, as a discipline, is keeping pace with the overall development of scientific systems. The 20th century division between physical and human geography dispelled the integrity and unity of geography, while the division of specialties and the deep development of research topics further eroded the discipline. In anticipation of the synthesis of complexity and earth system science, and new sciences in the 21st century, and against the background of globalization and sustainable development, nature and humanities should be reintegrated in university classrooms. The influence of dualism can disappear invisibly through the standardization of academic language, construction of discipline theories, and transformation of research paradigms. Furthermore, an integrated and systematic concept can execute the arduous and complex task of safeguarding the future of humanity and sustainable development of the earth.

Keywords

• dichotomy
• geography
• complex system
• integrative study
• sustainable development
• physical geography
• human geography