This paper examines the status of geography in modern China, which started at the beginning of the twentieth century when an academic geographical society was established and departments of geography were introduced in some universities.
Due to the historical situation during the Japanese-Chinese War, the civil war between the Communist Party and the Nationalist Party, and the foundation of the People's Republic of China, Chinese geographers took the path of contributing to the construction of the socialist country. They engaged in comprehensive field research, framing urban and regional planning, and proposing strategic policies for the Party and Government. They organized academic societies, research institutions, and universities on a large scale, in order to carry out tasks commissioned by the authorities.
Physical geography and economic geography enjoyed important positions under the influence of socialist ideology from the USSR during the period under a planned economy, while almost all academic activities were severely disrupted during the Cultural Revolution. In comparison, various fields of geography later developed under economic reforms and an open-door policy. In particular, many talented young academics began to study human geography, including economic and urban geography. Some practical fields involving technical skills and professional knowledge are very popular at universities as the market economy grows rapidly. Geographers have consistently paid attention to relationships between man and nature as one of the core subjects of geography, and recently have tried to address various questions in the context of global change.
The direction of Chinese geographers in terms of missions and practical activities, however, have led to the self-criticism that theoretical studies have been played down. It seems not to be sufficient for Chinese geographers to take time and pursue fundamental research subjects, and discover important research subjects that have not yet been noticed by the general public.
Nevertheless, geography in China is promising. The rest of the world is taking an interest in China. When we consider global issues, for instance, environmental disruption, utilization of natural resources, economic growth, and regional disparities, it is impossible for us to ignore the existence of China. It is clear that Chinese geographers will play an important role in international academic circles in the future.
