Germany: Geographies of Complexity

This book explores the complex spatial, social, cultural, and demographic structures of Germany, focusing on the reciprocal relations between different levels of spatial development. It discusses the historical development of Germany as a background to understand the development of spatially relevant ideas and ideals. The book adopts a neopragmatic approach to bring together different theoretical strands and provide a basis for independent regional geographic research. It highlights the influence of the material substrate on landscape notions and discusses questions of divergence and convergence in past and present economic, political, and demographic developments. Case study regions are used to illustrate the challenges of structural change and efforts to address them. The book demonstrates how theory-driven regional geographic research can make spatiotemporal complexities tangible and comprehensible.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate and multifaceted spatial, social, cultural, and demographic structures of Germany, placing a special emphasis on the reciprocal relationships between different levels of spatial development. The historical evolution of Germany acts as a backdrop, providing context for the emergence of spatially relevant ideas and ideals, whether in the realm of politics, landscape, or culture. Consequently, questions of divergence and convergence become central to understanding the country's spatial and social transformations.

The book aims to unravel the complexity of spatial and social developments in Germany, offering a clear and accessible account. By adopting a neopragmatic approach, it brings together diverse theoretical strands while providing a solid foundation for independent regional geographic research. The book begins with an overview of Germany's physical structures, serving as the foundation for its societal development. It then delves into key aspects of German history, paying particular attention to the reciprocal influence between the material substrate and notions of landscape. Through detailed analysis, specific "German trajectories of aesthetic and normative conceptions of landscape" become evident.

A recurring theme throughout the book is the exploration of divergence and convergence, which becomes evident when examining past and present economic, political, and demographic developments. Efforts to address current challenges, such as adapting to climate change and mitigating its effects, or securing essential raw materials, become apparent. The book showcases the complexity of spatial processes in Germany through case study regions that grapple with the challenges of structural change in traditional industrial regions, such as the Ruhr area, or the efforts of Berlin to establish itself as the capital of a vibrant and dynamic European metropolis.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of Germany's spatial and social dynamics. By providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective, it sheds light on the complex interplay between physical structures, historical developments, and cultural norms, contributing to a deeper understanding of the country's unique identity and trajectory.

Weight: 1128g
Dimension: 279 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030929527
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022