Region in its complexity: A discussion on constructivist approaches

Abstract

The contemporary regional geography paradigm is characterized by emphasizing the socially constructed nature of regions. However, the discussion on the conceptualization of region is very rich, it does not reach universal conclusion. Such a universal conceptualization is probably neither possible nor desirable. This paper aims to contribute to the ongoing discussion. It examines the various approaches towards region with special focus on the conceptualization of the institutionalization of the region based on the heuristic literature review and it attempts to propose more complex (but not ultimate) theoretical conceptualization of region that should enable to bridge the duality of region; addressed as an "animate", constantly changing, phenomenon which also makes it a resource for regional actors to meet their particular goals, one that people may perceive and feel attached to while further mediating their images thereof. The paper builds upon the Lefebvre's theory of the societal production of space and the Paasi's theory of the institutionalization of region and presents the idea of the societal production of region. It argues that any complex approach to region must incorporate three levels of region: "given" (practice of region), "made" (representation of region) and "perceived" (idea of region). Better understanding of the concept of region is still more necessary and relevant especially due to the increasing pressure on the applicability of regional research. Thus, the paper suggests the closer insight into the interrelation of three mentioned levels of region is crucial from the view of the contemporary state of art. This text is also published in Czech as the official on-line supplement of the article.

Region as a social construct and the critical discussion of the Paasi’s conceptualization of regional identity

“…V českém prostředí byla teorie institucionalizace regionů představena Chromým (2003) a později také řadou dalších autorů, kteří z ní vycházejí (více viz např. Semian 2016).…”

The region as a concept: traditional and constructivist view

“…In the conclusion, we offer a proposal for an analysis (and of synthesis) of a region, using the methodological contributions of both traditional and social-constructivist understandings of a region. The article takes the form of a discussion between the supporters of the traditional meaning vs. supporters of the region as a social construct (Hart 1982;Hartshorne 1939;Johnston, Hauer, Hoekveld 1990;Murphy 1991;Paasi 1986;Sauer 1925;Semian 2016;Whittlesey 1954 etc.). This provides an analysis of the concept of a region in individual approaches, as well as an analysis of the concept of the region by different geographers.…”

The contiguous United States in eleven zip codes: identifying and mapping socio-economic census data clusters and exemplars using affinity propagation

“…The identification, investigation, and comparison of 'regions' is one of the most recurring themes throughout geography (Hazzi et al, 2018;Paasi 2002;Sidaway & Hall, 2018;Weaver & Holtkamp, 2016). Countries are normally diverse and heterogeneous agglomerations of places, whose differences and similarities span across various metrics (Culcasi, 2010;Liesch, 2008;Semian, 2016). Accurately organizing countries into different regions based on characteristics of wealth, race, education, language, and occupation is a complicated and arduous task (Culcasi, 2010;Sidaway & Hall, 2018).…”