Geographical objects as systems: adequate properties and functions
V.B. KOROBOV1, B.I. KOCHUROV2, A.S. LOKHOV1, A.G. TUTYGIN3
1Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
2Institute of Geography, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
3Lomonosov Northern (Arctic) Federal University, Arkhàngelsk, Russia
Keywords: object, system, integrity, component, influencing factor, oriented graph
Abstract
The concept of “system” is analyzed. The basic properties of systems are established. It was revealed that all its elements must be interconnected and be in interaction, the system interacts with the external environment as a whole, and the division in it occurs from the whole to the parts. It is concluded that in relation to geographical objects these requirements are too stringent, because then there arises a need for mandatory implementation of all the conditions inherent in the systems. And this is not always possible, because the realization of the goals, in accordance with which the object is formed, may require consideration of independent factors. It is shown that not all geographical and related objects - socio-geographical and geo-ecological - meet the requirements for classical systems, because some (and sometimes all) of their components (or influencing factors) are not mutually dependent. A virtual example of a problem is given, namely the selection of the optimal location of an object out of several alternatives, consisting of several groups of factors, illustrating the absence of direct links between some of the components of the object. It is proposed to call such objects “non-system” objects. In contrast to systems, for them it is possible to form the structure from the bottom up, from private to general, combining, if necessary, the components of the object into groups, which makes it possible to consistently complicate the object of research as necessary. At the same time, a number of factors, such as seasonal factors, can change their importance over time, which leads to the transition of objects from the “system” state to the “non-system” state, and vice versa. Factors, the influence of which is limited in space, can lead to similar consequences. A graphical interpretation of the concepts of “system” and “non-system object” in the form of oriented graphs, the edges of which represent groups of components (influencing factors) is provided. With such an approach, systems can be considered as a special case of objects in which all components are interrelated. At the same time, systems can be components of complex non-system objects.
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