A Short Introduction to Quantitative Geography

Written by Richard Harris, School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol

Summary

This short report provides a short introduction to quantitative geography (or, why geography without quantitative methods just does not add up), its history and why it is of on-going importance within the discipline. It argues that quantitative geography is sometimes confused with traditional statistical tests that, although often useful, do not do justice to its wider scope. A better understanding of quantitative geography is as a creative act of applied data analysis – geographical ‘story telling’ with data – for which new sources of information, better access to data and new technologies for mapping and presentation provide fresh insights into geographical processes and outcomes. The report stresses the importance of numeracy and of experience in using data for geographical enquiry and knowledge as key skills for geographers to obtain.