Geography and the Quality of Life∗

Quality of life has two meanings pertinent to geographers. The understanding of one's environment, constructed and otherwise, learned in geography contributes to the quality of one's life in the personal sense. The objective meaning refers to the characteristics of a society in a given place and time, the conditions within which people seek happiness. Improvement of the quality of life in this objective meaning is the proper goal of public policy. Although probably unmeasurable in a statistical way, it is still superior to strictly economic goals. As a goal related to place it is especially important for geographers. Policy directions toward social and aesthetic goals are suggested for urban areas. In rural areas soil conservation and proper treatment of toxic substances, including plutonium, are emphasized. The imperative of reducing inequities within and among societies is intrinsic to the concept and requires profound changes in the political economy.