THE POSITIONAL PRINCIPLE AND THE PRESSURE OF PLACE

A theoretical geographer introduces the concepts of the positional principle, defined as the relationship between properties of objects and their position in space, and of the pressure of place, defined as the force that strives to shift objects to an optimal location. In response to the pressure, the object (which may be a living being, group of people, settlement or economic installation) is compelled to migrate or, if it remains in place, it either will have to modify its functions to adapt to the environment or will deteriorate. The positional principle is reflected in any patterns of territorial zoning.