Which one of the following geographers famously stated that "population is the point of reference from which all the other elements are observed and derive significance and meaning"?

Correct option is B

G. T. Trewartha is the geographer who famously stated that "population is the point of reference from which all the other elements are observed and derive significance and meaning." Trewartha emphasized that population, as the central human factor, plays a crucial role in understanding various geographical elements such as settlement patterns, economic activities, and resource distribution. This perspective highlights the interdependence of demographic factors with other elements of the environment, underlining the importance of population studies in geography.

Information Booster:

1. G. T. Trewartha's work was influential in shaping the field of population geography, stressing the importance of population dynamics in the broader geographical context.
2. His statement underscores the idea that population influences many other aspects of geography, such as land use, urban development, and resource management.
3. Trewartha's approach placed human populations at the core of geographical studies, allowing for a better understanding of patterns in migration, settlement, and economic activity.
4. His perspective contributed to the development of more integrated studies of human geography, emphasizing how demographic factors shape the physical and cultural landscape.
5. Understanding population as a central force in geography allows for more effective policy-making in areas such as urban planning, environmental sustainability, and social welfare.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) J. I. Clarke was a geographer known for his work in the field of human geography, but the specific statement attributed to Trewartha is not from Clarke. Clarke focused more on regional geography and urban studies.
  
• (c) E. A. Jones contributed to regional planning and geography but did not focus specifically on the role of population in the way that Trewartha did.
• (d) W. Zelinsky is renowned for his work in migration studies, but the quote about population being the central element in geography is attributed to G. T. Trewartha.