_______ was the first formal book on geography. 

  1. Geographica 
  2. Guide to Geography  
  3. Periods Ges 
  4. Kosmos 

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Kosmos 

Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is 'Kosmos'

Key Points

  • Kosmos:
    • Kosmos is considered the first formal and comprehensive book on geography, written by the eminent German scholar Alexander von Humboldt.
    • The book aimed to unify diverse branches of scientific knowledge about the physical world and is often seen as laying the foundation of modern physical geography.
    • Published in multiple volumes starting in 1845, Kosmos introduced the idea of treating geography as a holistic science interconnected with astronomy, geology, meteorology, and biology.
    • It emphasized empirical observation and the interrelation of phenomena, setting the tone for later geographical studies.

Additional Information

  • Geographica:
    • Written by the ancient Greek scholar Strabo around 7 BCE, it was a monumental descriptive work on the known world at that time.
    • While it contributed significantly to classical geographical knowledge, it was more descriptive and lacked the scientific and integrative approach found in Kosmos.
  • Guide to Geography:
    • This is commonly attributed to Claudius Ptolemy, a Greco-Roman mathematician and geographer, in the 2nd century CE.
    • It introduced the concepts of cartography and coordinate systems but was focused more on mathematical geography rather than a holistic scientific framework.
  • Periods Ges:
    • This is not recognized as a standard geographical work and does not hold significance in the formal history of geographical literature.
    • It appears to be either a misinterpretation or an incorrect option not related to mainstream geographical foundations.

Important Points

  • Alexander von Humboldt is known as the Father of Modern Geography for his scientific approach and contribution through Kosmos.
  • He emphasized the principle of unity in diversity in geographical phenomena and pioneered ecological and environmental studies.
  • Kosmos influenced many scientists and explorers, including Charles Darwin, due to its interdisciplinary and systematic analysis of nature.

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