From Applying Geography to Applied Geography

Abstract

Applied Geography is a dynamic field that changes over time but always maintains a central focus on attempting to solve practical problems our societies face. Studies in Applied Geography are versatile in terms of subject matters but the foundation of this field is based on applying geographic concepts and geospatial technologies to solve real world problems. Given that, it is difficult to define Applied Geography with a strict structure since Geography itself cannot be defined that way and Geography lacks a set of fundamental theories to call its own. In the inaugural issue of Papers in Applied Geography, we argue that Applied Geography would continue to flourish even without a precise definition because applied studies are generically beneficial to our everyday lives. In this article, we also discuss the evolution of Applied Geography from the perspective of papers published in the 37 annual volumes by Applied Geography Conferences since 1978. The topics and contents of these published papers, though not exhaustive, provide a snapshot of applied studies in Geography.