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Chapter 4
Theoretical Models of Time-Space: The Role
of Transport Networks in the Shrinking
and Shrivelling of Geographical Space
Alain L'Hostis
4.1
Introduction
Understanding the distance between places is a fundamental task for the geographer,
while the representation of distances constitutes the primary function of car-
tography. This is why a time-distance representation is a critical tool for the
contemporary geographer. Among the types of maps introduced to represent time-
space, anamorphoses were supplemented with time-space relief cartography in the
1990s. In one aspect, globalization has been made possible primarily through a
reduction in time-distances, which are allowable by high travel speeds, particularly
through the development of air transportation. However, the metropolitanization
process, which is seen as the urban counterpart of globalization, is deeply associated
with the development of air connection platforms. Both phenomena are intrinsically
linked with the formation of distance, specifically with time-distances.
The purpose of this chapter is to present cartographic models of time-space and
discuss their theoretical meaning for geography. The first step is to show a set of
solutions for the cartographical representations of distances, which are transformed
by different means of transportation. In the second step, we will discuss the relations
between these cartographical solutions and the theoretical geographical discourse on
time-space, which is structured around classical theoretical models.
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