Fundamental Geography

The term 'geography' is composed of two words 'geo' which means 'earth' and 'graphos' which means 'description'. These two words are taken from the ancient Greek language. The term 'geography' was first used by a Greek Scholar Eratosthenese. Geography means a description of the earth. It is a description of unending processes which are occurring on the surface and inside the earth. It is quite imperative to note that the earth's surface is not static. It is dynamic in nature. It is going through a continues process of changes. Some changes are sudden and life threatening, therefore, for human beings, it is extremely important to observe these changes and take essential measures immediately. That is where the understanding of the nature comes in handy. On the other hand, there are some changes which are slow and may not impact the human life at present. But their consequences may not be positive in the future. So, it becomes our prime responsibility to take necessary steps now to reduce their harmful effect later. Geography plays the role of connecting this ever changing earth with the human beings. That way geography not only helps us to tackle the vagaries of nature at present, but also teaches us to be future ready.

Geographic studies are broadly classified into the following two branches:

• Physical Geography

• Human Geography

Here, we have made an attempt to discuss the fundamentals of Physical and Human Geography.