Geography is considered 'The Mother of all Sciences', as most streams of sciences took root from it. It is one of the oldest earth sciences, and its roots go back to the early Greek scholars.
1. Defining Geography
- The term 'Geography' was coined by the Greek scholar Eratosthenes, who combined two Greek words: 'Geo' (the Earth) and 'Graphien' (to describe). In the literary sense, geography is the description of the Earth.
- Geography was born through explorations and discoveries. Its early aim was to discover new lands and sea routes, prepare maps and describe them. Later the emphasis shifted to scientific investigation of landforms, oceans and atmosphere, and of the interactions between human beings and the environment.
In essence, geography is
- A multifaceted discipline
- The study of intra and inter relationships of the various spheres of the earth
- A discipline that collects and analyses data and applies the latest tools and methods to prepare maps and visuals
- A provider of sustainable solutions to human and environmental issues of the earth