Regionalization as a Research Method

Abstract

This article proposes a methodological reflection focused on regionalization. It is considered as a system of spatial practices motivated, among other factors, by the interest in producing scientific knowledge. As such, regionalization can be regarded as a fundamental method developed throughout the geographical tradition. It does not constitute a simple rigid model to be applied, nor is it limited to a specific quantitative or qualitative inquiry technique. Rather, it is considered as an extensive, eclectic, and unfinished repertoire of epistemological assumptions, organizing concepts, fieldwork tactics, and empirical testing techniques, available to those who intend to produce scientific knowledge about geographic space through the identification, delimitation, denomination and representation of significant units, i.e., the so-called regions.