Boundaries of Cultural Landscapes: Theoretical Concepts and Identification Practices in Russian Geography

Aim . The generalisation of major theoretical and practical approaches to delimitation of cultural landscapes’ boundaries in Russian geography. Methodology . The main research method was system analysis, which helped to conduct critical assessment of the existing humanitarian and physical-geographical approaches to defining boundaries of cultural landscapes. A possibility to use the fuzzy classifications method for modelling the optimal position of cultural landscapes correlation boundaries is presented. The research materials included thematic publications in landscapes studies both in human and physical geography, as well as philosophical ideas about the essence of “the border” concept in humanitarian and physical geography, philosophy, ethnology, and cultural studies dealing with the essence of the “border” concept and the factors determining its position. Results . The relevance of research on the cultural landscapes’ boundaries research for the theory of geography is indicated. The principles of boundaries delimitation in cultural landscapes, as well as cultural and natural factors influencing them, are revealed based on physical and humanitarian geography approaches. Since cultural landscapes’ boundaries are formed under the dynamic influence of natural, cultural, economic and political factors (despite differences of these approaches), we recommend regarding these boundaries as correlational. The ecotonic nature of cultural landscapes boundaries was demonstrated, reflecting limits of natural environment anthropogenic transformation during economic development in accordance with certain socio-cultural attitudes. Attention is drawn to the expediency to distinguish a border as an independent cultural landscape. Research implications . The conducted research develops theoretical concepts dealing with cultural landscapes and their boundaries in Russian geography: identify common and differing methodological approaches in modern anthropogenic landscape studies and human geography relative to the cultural landscapes phenomenon, emphasize the research scale role which determine priority factors influencing boarders position, demonstrate a possibility of cultural landscapes boundaries modelling, regarding their correlative essence. The results of the study are useful for thematic maps creation in territorial planning, conservation of natural and cultural heritage, and social stabilization to provide territorial sustainable development