socioterritoriality

Socioterritoriality refers to the complex relationship between social organization and the use and understanding of space and territory. It describes how human societies interact with, define, and are shaped by the territories they inhabit. This concept encompasses various aspects, including how groups establish boundaries, claim resources, and develop distinct spatial practices.

The formation of socioterritorial units can be driven by a multitude of factors, such as kinship, ethnicity, political power, economic interests, or shared cultural values. These units are not static; they evolve and are contested as societies change and interact with their environments and with other groups. The spatial dimension is thus integral to social life, influencing social cohesion, conflict, and identity.

Understanding socioterritoriality involves analyzing how people perceive their surroundings, how they organize themselves within these spaces, and how these spatial arrangements influence social structures and dynamics. It highlights that territory is not merely a physical area but a social construct imbued with meaning and purpose by its inhabitants. This concept is relevant across disciplines like sociology, anthropology, geography, and political science, offering a framework for examining the interplay between human societies and their spatial dimensions.