Specialised Concepts Flashcards
Define systems.
Groups of related objects, whether they are physical or human. They have inputs, throughputs and outputs.
Define equilibrium.
The state of stability in a system achieved when a balance exists between inputs and outputs.
Define globalisation.
The multiple interconnections and linkages between nations, groups of people, businesses and individuals which make up the modern world.
Define adaption.
Responses to environmental change which aim to modify human behaviour and economic systems permanently.
Define causality.
The relationship between cause and effect. A causal agent creates change in a dependent variable.
Define identity.
How something is recognised. For geographers the concept of identity is closely associated with place.
Define inequality.
The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, well-being etc within society.
Define feedback.
An automatic internal response to change in systems.. Negative feedback restores a system to balance; positive feedback amplifies change.
Define interdependence.
The mutual dependence of two or more countries in which there is a reciprocal relationship.
Define mitigation.
Action which is taken to lessen the impact of natural hazards on people, economy and society. It does not aim to prevent hazards.
Define representation.
The way by which meanings are given to the world.
Define resilience.
The ability of countries, communities, households and environmental systems to resist, absorb and recover from the effects of shocks or stresses.
Define risk.
The probability of a range of possible outcomes resulting from specific events such as economic shock or hazard.
Define sustainability.
The use of resources that is environmentally and economically viable in the long term.
Define threshold.
Critical ‘tipping points’ in a system, which if exceeded result in massive and irreversible change.
