Geographic Thought on Space, Place, and Identity

How does the geography of our lives shape who we are?

The concepts of space and place in geographic thought offer profound insights into how our surroundings influence our personalities, identities, and even our worldviews.

Understanding these elements helps us see how location, culture, and history intertwine to shape human experience.

Space vs. Place: More Than Just Locations

In geography, space refers to the abstract, physical dimensions of the world—the measurable distances and spatial relationships that form the backdrop of our existence. Place, on the other hand, carries meaning; it is shaped by human experiences, emotions, and cultural attachments. As geographer Yi-Fu Tuan (1977) explains in Space and Place: The Perspective of Experience, places gain significance through personal and collective experiences. Where we grow up, the landscapes we navigate daily, and the historical events tied to specific places all contribute to our sense of belonging.

The Impact of Geography on Personality

The environments we inhabit play a crucial role in shaping our behaviors, values, and perspectives. Studies in environmental psychology and human geography support the idea that place-based experiences influence personality development. For example:

Urban vs. Rural Upbringing – City dwellers often develop adaptability and cultural awareness due to exposure to diverse people and ideas (Florida, 2002). Rural residents may cultivate a deeper connection to nature and tight-knit community values (Halfacree, 1993).
Climate and Lifestyle – Colder regions may encourage resilience and structured routines, while warmer climates often promote outdoor social interactions and relaxed attitudes (Huntington, 1915). Scott and I love cold weather, but living in South Carolina and Georgia means we don’t experience it as much as we would like.
Historical and Cultural Influences – Living in historically significant places fosters a deeper awareness of heritage, shaping one’s worldview and sense of responsibility toward history (Cosgrove, 1989). My first ten years were spent in South Carolina before moving to Georgia, where I’ve spent most of my time in Coastal and Middle Georgia. My husband, Scott, is a native of Middle Georgia, growing up in a rural area. These backgrounds influence how we see the world, balancing an appreciation for both structured urban environments and the peace of rural life.

Geographic Histories and Identity Awareness

Recognizing our geographic histories strengthens our understanding of identity. Migration patterns, ancestral homelands, and personal geographies shape our perceptions of self and community. For instance, Doreen Massey (1994) in Space, Place, and Gender argues that places are dynamic and shaped by both local and global interactions, which influence our self-concept. Because of my experiences growing up in multiple geographic settings, I’ve developed a strong tolerance for various personalities and perspectives, allowing me to extend grace in different social and professional situations. When we explore where we come from, we gain clarity on our place in the world and the forces that have shaped us.

World Impact: Why Understanding Place Matters

Awareness of geographic identity fosters empathy and global consciousness. Recognizing how place influences not only our own lives but also those of others helps build bridges between cultures. It enhances our ability to engage with global issues such as climate change, urban development, and cultural preservation. Scholars like David Harvey (1996) in Justice, Nature, and the Geography of Difference argue that spatial awareness plays a role in social justice, emphasizing the need for equitable development and inclusive urban planning.

Final Thoughts

Space and place are more than coordinates on a map—they are living, evolving narratives that define who we are. By understanding our geographic histories and their role in identity formation, we gain a deeper connection to ourselves, our communities, and the world around us. I like to think about this as one's personal geography.

As Edward Relph (1976) highlights in Place and Placelessness, a strong sense of place fosters meaning in our lives, while losing connection to place can create detachment and disorientation.

Embracing geographic awareness enables us to navigate not only physical spaces but also our place in the broader world.

References

Cosgrove, D. (1989). Social Formation and Symbolic Landscape. University of Wisconsin Press.
Florida, R. (2002). The Rise of the Creative Class: And How It’s Transforming Work, Leisure, Community, and Everyday Life. Basic Books.
Halfacree, K. H. (1993). Locality and social representation: Space, discourse and alternative definitions of the rural. Journal of Rural Studies, 9(1), 23-37.
Harvey, D. (1996). Justice, Nature, and the Geography of Difference. Blackwell.
Huntington, E. (1915). Civilization and Climate. Yale University Press.
Massey, D. (1994). Space, Place, and Gender. University of Minnesota Press.
Relph, E. (1976). Place and Placelessness. Pion Limited.
Tuan, Y. F. (1977). Space and Place: The Perspective of Experience. University of Minnesota Press.