System theory in geomorphology : challenges, epistemological consequences and practical implications
Author(s)
Bibliographic Information
System theory in geomorphology : challenges, epistemological consequences and practical implications
（Springer theses : recognizing outstanding Ph. D. research）
Springer, c2012
- Other Title
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Systemtheorie in der Geomorphologie : Problemfelder, erkenntnistheoretische Konsequenzen und praktische Implikationen
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Note
Originally presented as the author's thesis (doctoral) -- Universität Wien
Includes bibliographical references and index
Description and Table of Contents
Description
Empirical research needs a profound theory to be successful. This is the simple but, in its consequences, radical approach for this study in geomorphology. It critically analyses the current system understanding and offers a new view for a geomorphology that understands systems as being open but at the same time operationally closed, as self-organized, structure-building and potentially self-referential. Kirsten von Elverfeldt succeeds in designing a theoretical framework that sets new standards within Physical Geography. By using state-of-the-art concepts in system theory, it offers also new bridges to Human Geography as well as to other neighbouring disciplines.
This book was awarded the Dissertation prize 2010 of the German Working Group in Geomorphology of the DGfG and the Hans Bobek-prize of the OEGG (Austrian Geographical Society).
Table of Contents
Foreword
Preface
1. (System-)Theoretical thinking: A challenge to geomorphology?
2. Observation and distinction: the underlying method
Part I: Problem areas
3. First problem area: Coherence of basic assumptions and concepts
4. Second problem area: Openness and determinacy
5. Third problem area: The physical basis
6. Fourth problem area: Equilibria
7. Fifth problem area: Complexity and non-linearity
8. Tentative conclusions in two steps
Part II: Consequences and implications
9. Epistemological consequences
10. Practical implications
11. Meeting the challenge: An approach towards a geomorphological system theory
12. Summary
13. References
Index
by "Nielsen BookData"
