THE USEFULNESS OF MENTAL MAPS FOR SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH OF THE CITY

Abstract

The paper attempts to demonstrate the potential applications of mental maps in sociological research of the city. The author presents the method and its modification. Beginning with the classical work by Kevin Lynch, he proceeds to show the elaboration of this method in the research of psychologists, social geographers and urbanists. The subsequent part of the paper discusses the possibilities of applying the method in sociological research of the city. The author demonstrates the wide range of possibilities offered by the use of mental maps. The final chapter includes a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of this method.