Human Geography

Human geography is a branch of geography that focuses on the study of the human population and their cultural, economic, and social interactions with the environment. It examines the distribution of human populations across the globe, the impact of human activity on the natural environment, and the ways in which people use and manage natural resources.

Learn about the different areas of human geography including economic geography, population geography, cultural geography, and more.

This row of house on Exeter between Seven Mile and Penrose in Northern Detroit shows the progression of increased blight starting in 2009 (top picture), 2011 (middle), and 2013 (bottom). Images: Google Street View via GooBing Detroit

Using Google Street View to Track Urban Decay

Caitlin Dempsey

The Michigan city of Detroit has an estimated 20 square miles of vacant, abandoned and underused land.  

The Intersection of Health Sciences and Geography

Elizabeth Borneman

Geography can often play a very large role in the health concerns of certain populations.

National Climate Assessment Report Released

Caitlin Dempsey

The National Climate Assessment, an important report on the impacts on climate change in the United States today and in ...

Willow Oak in City Park. Photo: USGS, public domain.

When Streets Have No Trees

Caitlin Dempsey

The presence of trees in cities yields multiple benefits.

A photo taken from the International Space Station showing the night lights over India and Pakistan.

Five Fun Facts About International Borders

Caitlin Dempsey

Learn about some of the most fascinating international borders in the world.