Abstract
AbstractThis study explores “Assemblage” thinking as an approach to population geography research. The paper highlights the recent prominence of Assemblage thinking in human geography, before exploring the potential opportunities for engagement by population geographers. In particular, we focus on the production of place as co‐constituted by the material (space) and the discursive (knowledge, process, and practice). Considering the Assemblage practice of “Rendering Technical,” we reflect on the role that population geography plays in authorising knowledge and supporting policy. This is investigated through a critical taxonomic analysis of recent Scottish demographic data. It is argued on the one hand that this captures key economic and population characteristics of “place,” while on the other hand, it offers a limited technical knowledge. We conclude that a reflexive approach to research using Assemblage thinking may challenge the intimate relationship between population geographers and the state.
Highlights
This paper explores “Assemblage” thinking as an approach to research in population geography
The paper critically discusses the benefits of engaging with Assemblage thinking for the field of population geography, thereby opening up discussion of how relational thinking can be incorporated into the tools of a policy relevant subdiscipline
We have argued for an Assemblage approach in population geography, which would incorporate the technical knowledges of the subdiscipline and present a population example using a typology—a traditional method for classifying population spaces
Summary
This paper explores “Assemblage” thinking as an approach to research in population geography. One starting point to apply these ideas from assemblage thinking is to consider “population places” as both material and discursive, as we have argued In this way, both the processes and practices of Assemblage offer potential for population geographers to better understand and respond to the material spaces we research. These examples provoke reflection on how practices of rendering technical could exist within traditional approaches in population geography This links back to Bailey (2005) and where populations have too often in the past been reduced to numbers and characteristics, detached from the discussions of space (material, economic, and social) and place. Beginning with a traditional approach of composing a typology using a statistical clustering technique, the paper addresses the social processes and practices of the Assemblage to understand population space/place.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
