Concepts of Geographical Activity Analysis: Structures and Problems

ABSTRACT

This paper attempts to formulate more precisely the question of the effects of the spatial structure on the individual behavior. In this context two spheres of behavior are differentiated, the genesis of activity goals and their realization, and the effects of spatio-structural influences on them are reflected. They are summarized in a compensation hypothesis and a restriction hypothesis. These effects can not easily be obtained from time-budget data; therefor, it is suggested to attempt a more comprehensive characterization of the activities within their situational context, as well as a stronger consideration of internal relations within the activity pattern of a person, in order to improve the opportunities for analysis. Further chances are given with a better categorization of the population, for which the concept of the ecological scope of action was developed. The analysis of the variability of activities refers to the thesis stated by Horton and Reynolds, regarding the stable pattern of movement linkages which is accomplished when the ecological scope of action is fully utilized. It seems possible, though, that latent conflicts remain beyond this, so that a solution could only be reached through an enlargement of the given scope of action, usually by measures of planning.