Geopolitics

Abstract

This chapter assesses the geography and politics nexus as embodied in geopolitics and appraises conflict and its resolution, war and peace. The place, space and time geopolitical frameworks for analyses, geographical scales and places and their interconnections are reviewed. Geopolitical approaches spanning the range from traditional schools of thought to critical geopolitics are referenced. Territory disputed can range from a few square meters regarding areas on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, to thousands of square kilometres as with power standoffs in the South China Sea. Borders, boundaries and polity are expressed in multi-faceted ways as exemplified by walls, public squares and symbolic places. Analyses of interactions between territory and people in place and time contexts is imperative for sustainable planning and positive action to take place. Territoriality and territorialisation are fundamental concepts linked to location—indicated by natural, human and political geographical coordinates. The plotting of maps, GIS and Big Data are vital for the humanitarian community, as is awareness of the sources, selection of data types, and intended images.