Is Geography a science? It is comprised of theories, Laws and rules

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around whether geography qualifies as a science, exploring its theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and the interplay with other scientific disciplines. Participants examine definitions of science and the implications of geography's characteristics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that geography includes theories, laws, hypotheses, and mathematical equations, suggesting it has scientific elements.
  • One participant proposes that geography can be considered a science if defined as a discipline where theories can be tested by experiment.
  • Another viewpoint suggests that the use of scientific jargon is a criterion for science, referencing a Wikipedia page on geography as an example.
  • There is a humorous assertion regarding the historical context of the Appalachian mountains and their impact on human evolution, which some participants find entertaining.
  • A later post questions the classification of geography by simply asking about "earth science," indicating a potential overlap or distinction in terminology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether geography is definitively a science, with multiple competing views and definitions presented throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some arguments rely on specific definitions of science, which may vary among participants. There are also references to historical claims that may not be universally accepted or verified.

log(3.14)
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Is Geography a science? It is comprised of theories, Laws (well Rules realy), hypothesis, some Math equations, aspects of Physics Chemistry and Biology. Also there is still much to be learned from it.
 
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I would judge it to be a science covering a very broad area.
 


log(3.14) said:
Is Geography a science?
If you define a science as a discipline in which theories can be tested by experiment, then geography is indeed a science.

For instance, about 450 million years ago, scientists erected the Appalachian mountains to see if people to the west of it would evolve differently from those on the east. The existence of California proved them correct. The Rockies were not erected as an experiment, but by well intentioned easterners who felt that the harder it was for Californians to communicate with the real world, the better.

Another definition of a science is that it uses a lot of scientific jargon. Here, for example, is the wiki page on geography. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography" . Works for me.

On the other hand, most scientists do their best work in their 20's, but most winners of the National Geography Bee are in their teens, so maybe it's not a science after all. But even if it weren't a science, you could make it one by adding the word physical in front of it as in physical astrology or physical chemistry. So call it physical geography and be done with it.
 
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jimmysnyder said:
Another definition of a science is that it uses a lot of scientific jargon. Here, for example, is the wiki page on geography. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography" . Works for me.

I didn't get that link working, so here is what you might have meant.

http://uncyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Geography"
 
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jimmysnyder said:
For instance, about 450 million years ago, scientists erected the Appalachian mountains to see if people to the west of it would evolve differently from those on the east. The existence of California proved them correct. The Rockies were not erected as an experiment, but by well intentioned easterners who felt that the harder it was for Californians to communicate with the real world, the better.

.

Love this!
 


earth science?
 

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