A conceptual and historical basis for spatial analysis

✍ Scribed by John W. Simpson

• Book ID: 119137998
• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 1989
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 880 KB
• Volume: 17
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0169-2046
• DOI: 10.1016/0169-2046(89)90085-6

✦ Synopsis

Basic geographic information systems and spatial analysis techniques are frequently used in order to gain environmental understanding as a basis for landscape planning. While technical descriptions of such techniques are common, little has been written regarding their historical or conceptual bases. Four fundamental concepts that underlie these techniques are proposed and discussed: environmental complexity; determinism; stewardship; and spatial pat-terns. An account of the historical evolution of spatial thinking bused on the development of geographic thought is also presented, with key phases identified that led to the development and integration of spatial anal_ysis techniques into landscape planning as a standard method of gaining environmental understanding. Limitations in the use of "overlays" are evaluated in light of the historical account and conceptual basis, and promising directions for further development identified. Greater awareness of the roots underlying the spatial analysis techniques so routinely used today can ,facilitate their proper use, and encourage.further innovation.