Using Chorems in Graphical Modeling: The Case of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

In geographical research, the use of “chorems” has been presented as a meaningful graphical modeling method of geographical spaces ( Brunet, 1980 ) . This method summarizes the specific characters and overall design of one given space whatever its configuration, its extent and its characteristics by using simplified graphical shapes, figures, colors, signs, arrows and textures instead of drawing real maps. The graphical modeling by “chorems” reveals useful to express the profound inner space structures, patterns and relationships of the various areas and different phenomena composing spaces. In this research, one goal is to try to review the set of rules and guidelines to easily realize series of “chorems” that apply to one space. Another goal is to implement, discuss and evaluate a case application of “chorems” on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The third goal is to measure to what extent this method may be useful to portray and understand spatial inner structures of KSA and how far. Despite some progress and attempts conducted to render automatic the chorems creation or extraction ( Laurini & Serigne, 2001 ) , the author uses the traditional step by step method. The idea behind is to try to discuss each step to make understanding of the whole process easier, especially for Arab readers and Saudi planners. The examples studied are derived from the geography of KSA at the national level. The thematic data are about its main natural and human components and resources, the spatial mobility of its human components and their evolution over time. Compared to the traditional maps used in planning or geographical textbook description of one space, the chorems focus on its main spatial figures and reveal very useful. First, they may help common readers to understand the main characteristics and features of one given space; second, planners and deciders may consider the focal nodes, axes, and areas of one space for featuring its development. Although some limits of the chorematic method, the research findings conclude that “chorems” are figures that may yield useful ideas and guidelines for understanding and featuring the development of one country with regards to its spatial planning policy, i.e., in the case of KSA, to support the future vision of the Kingdom’s 2030.