Regional Geography and Quantitative Geography: Compare and Contrast

Abstract

During the 20th century, the method of geographic research underwent a series of changes. Some of these changes can be sequentially characterized by an overarching concern with “the region” and all its interrelated facets, followed by a search for law-like statements of spatial processes and, more recently, a renewed appreciation for place-specific attributes that affect manifestations of general spatial processes. This paper compares regional geography and the move toward geography as a spatial science. In other words, the purpose and methods of regional geography are described and contrasted with the purpose and methods associated with geography’s quantitative revolution. Objections that were leveled against regional geography and alternatives that are emerged from the critique are discussed. Next, the recognition of “place” that informs contemporary quantitative research in geography is discussed and showed how current research methods frequently blend elements of regional geography with modern quantitative techniques.