Chorème

A chorème is a geographical Néologisme invented by Roger Brunet in 1980. The term comes from the Greek word Chôra , which means territory, extent, place, region.

Definition

A chorème is a diagrammatic representation of a selected space. It is not a simplification of reality, it aims at representing all the complexity of the Territoire using geometrical forms . Even if it seems simplifying, the chorème is carried out in a rigorous way and it takes account of all dynamics present on the studied territory.

The base of the chorème is in general a simple geometrical form where come to superimpose other forms symbolizing the involved mechanisms. There exists a table of 28 chorèmes, of which each one represents a space configuration, and make it possible, by assembling them, to represent, with different scales, of the space phenomena. The chorématique one proposes only readings among the other possible ones of geographical space.

Indeed, Roger Brunet itself makes only one “tool of it among others”. But an invaluable tool because it is not that a graphic tool, but also a method of space Analyze.

Criticisms

The chorèmes were highly criticized by certain geographers such as Yves Lacoste or Robert Marconis. They reproach them in particular their too diagrammatic geometrical forms, and the absence of precise localization.

External bonds

Definition: Chorème, ticket on the Blog Thiboniste (February 9th, 2006)

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