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Leonard Guelke’s Idealist Approach
In 1981, Leonard Guelke advocated the idealist approach as a counter to the positivist arguments dominating historical geography. Guelke emphasizes the need for a philosophical shift rather than a change in techniques, urging scholars to embrace an approach widely accepted by historians.
Metaphysical and Epistemological Arguments
Guelke’s idealist philosophy combines metaphysical and epistemological arguments. The metaphysical stance posits that mental activity operates independently of material things, while the epistemological argument asserts that knowledge is based on subjective experiences and mental constructs. Guelke challenges the positivist belief in an independently knowable ‘real’ world.
Critique of Positivist Spatial Science and Behavioral Geography
Positivist spatial science and behavioral geography face criticism from Guelke. The former is faulted for assuming the existence of a ‘real’ world, while the latter is challenged for its single-cause model reminiscent of environmental determinism. Guelke advocates for an idealist approach that focuses on overt behavior and interpretation.
Bunting and Guelke’s Argument
Bunting and Guelke (1979) argue for the idealist approach, emphasizing the importance of a scholar’s critical dialogue with evidence and peer appraisal. Guelke suggests that geographers should understand decision-makers’ beliefs rather than developing new theories, as these theories already exist in decision-makers’ minds.
Hays’ Critique
Hays (1979) identifies inherent weaknesses in the idealist approach, noting its failure to consider unconscious or subconscious behavior. He emphasizes the influence of objective facts on behavioral outcomes and criticizes idealism as reductionist, asserting that the world is more than a collection of independent decision-makers.
Mabogunje’s Criticism
Mabogunje criticizes Guelke’s idealist approach, arguing against a retreat from objective theory formulations. Instead, he advocates building better theories that encompass differences in value systems, highlighting the importance of exploring the consequences of social actions.
Verification Challenges
Some scholars express doubts about verifying idealist interpretations. This article raises questions about the challenges of validating idealist explanations, particularly when considering unconscious behaviors and the diversity of value systems.
Conclusion
Understanding Guelke’s idealist approach is a crucial exploration in historical geography. Despite critiques, it offers a valuable perspective on interpreting human behavior, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of decision-makers’ beliefs and actions.
