Introduction to Geopolitical Issues Around the World
Part 1: The Definition
Our topic of study is looking at Geopolitical Issues. Geopolitics is the study of political beliefs and actions and how it plays out in a Geographical context. It is a division of Human Geography which is a multi-disciplinary study. Those who look at Geopolitics include those who study politics, law, sociology, economics, environmental issues etc.
When we think of politics we need to examine governments and how countries operate and function. Think of the different types of governments that run all of the countries of the world? How are they similar? How are they different? How are they able to relate to one another?
We also need to examine the element of power, who has it, who doesn't, and who wants it? And how does this get expressed through geographic space?
Geography looks at the spacial perspective on an issue: What is where? Why there? Why care?
When we look at Geopolitics, we combine how Geography (location, place, space, physical geography) affects politics and how politics affects Geography on a local, national and international stage.
Some of the topics that are covered within Geography are:
It is very difficult to study Geopolitics without looking at the history of a nation and how it is ruled, as well as the relationships it has had with neighbouring countries. Take a look at the following current Geopolitical issues around the world:
1. Switzerland currently restricts immigration because their conservative government has the belief that European Union (foreigners) members coming to Switzerland are undermining their wages and economy -- see here
2. The ongoing search for the missing airplane Malaysia flight MH370 in the Pacific -- see here and here
3. Continued tensions in Crimea -- see here and here
Part 1: The Definition
Our topic of study is looking at Geopolitical Issues. Geopolitics is the study of political beliefs and actions and how it plays out in a Geographical context. It is a division of Human Geography which is a multi-disciplinary study. Those who look at Geopolitics include those who study politics, law, sociology, economics, environmental issues etc.
When we think of politics we need to examine governments and how countries operate and function. Think of the different types of governments that run all of the countries of the world? How are they similar? How are they different? How are they able to relate to one another?
We also need to examine the element of power, who has it, who doesn't, and who wants it? And how does this get expressed through geographic space?
Geography looks at the spacial perspective on an issue: What is where? Why there? Why care?
When we look at Geopolitics, we combine how Geography (location, place, space, physical geography) affects politics and how politics affects Geography on a local, national and international stage.
Some of the topics that are covered within Geography are:
- International Trade
- Military alliances
- Foreign Aid
- Immigration and Emigration
- Territorial Controls and Disputes
- Economic Systems
- International Relations
- Terrorism
It is very difficult to study Geopolitics without looking at the history of a nation and how it is ruled, as well as the relationships it has had with neighbouring countries. Take a look at the following current Geopolitical issues around the world:
1. Switzerland currently restricts immigration because their conservative government has the belief that European Union (foreigners) members coming to Switzerland are undermining their wages and economy -- see here
2. The ongoing search for the missing airplane Malaysia flight MH370 in the Pacific -- see here and here
3. Continued tensions in Crimea -- see here and here
Part 2 -- Identifying Geopolitical Hotspots Around the World
In this next section, we will be creating an annotated map on Google Earth of different Geopolitical Hotspots around the world.
1. Start by reviewing the PowerPoint presentation below called "Creating an Annotated Map".
2. Watch the video on How to Create An Annotated Map below:
In this next section, we will be creating an annotated map on Google Earth of different Geopolitical Hotspots around the world.
1. Start by reviewing the PowerPoint presentation below called "Creating an Annotated Map".
2. Watch the video on How to Create An Annotated Map below:
3. Your assignment will be to choose a continent and research 10 Geopolitical Issues within that continent and create an annotated map with your information.
The information that will be needed in your annotated map will be as follows:
4. For next class, we are going to consolidate all of your annotated maps into a "Super Map" that will then give us a current snapshot of what is going on around the world.
The information that will be needed in your annotated map will be as follows:
- The geographic location or locations of the issue
- A description of what is the Geopolitical Issues - who is involved, what is going on, when has it taken place, where (see above), why there, how is the issue being dealt with?
- Why is this a concern for us in Canada? Why care about this issue?
4. For next class, we are going to consolidate all of your annotated maps into a "Super Map" that will then give us a current snapshot of what is going on around the world.
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