Disciplinary structure of geographic science in China

Abstract

International and domestic circumstances have led to new opportunities and higher requirements for the development of geographic science in China. In this paper, we propose a modified disciplinary structure for geographic science in China in the new era. Geographic science in China can be categorized into four secondary disciplines, i.e., integrated geography, physical geography, human geography, and information geography, according to the current situation and expected trends. The tertiary disciplines under each secondary discipline are nearly fully developed, and a few quaternary disciplines under the tertiary disciplines are widely accepted and used in China. We hope this new disciplinary structure can play a breakthrough role in improving the branches of geographic science, promoting the development of emerging disciplines under the framework of geographic science, and supporting national and international development strategies in the new era.