Question

Which of the following geographers described the ‘state/country’ as a ‘living organism’?

• A. French
• B. German
• C. Australian
• D. Indian

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The concept of the ‘state/country’ as a ‘living organism’ was described by a German geographer. This notion is associated with the Organic Theory in political geography, which views the state as similar to a biological organism - growing, developing, and requiring nourishment (resources and territory) to sustain itself. This idea was prominently advocated by Friedrich Ratzel, a notable German geographer and ethnographer.

Thus, the correct answer is: German

Answer 2

"State/country as a 'living organism'":

• (A) French: The French geographers did not describe the state or country as a "living organism." Their theories were often more focused on human geography and the relationship between humans and the environment.
• (B) German: The concept of the state as a 'living organism' was proposed by German geographer Friedrich Ratzel. He is known for his organicism approach, which described the state as a living organism that grows, evolves, and is influenced by its environment. This idea is a central part of his "Organic Theory of the State".
• (C) Australian: Australian geographers have contributed to various geographical theories, but the description of the state as a "living organism" is not part of their body of work.
• (D) Indian: Indian geographers have made important contributions, but the idea of the state as a living organism is not typically associated with them.

Therefore, the correct answer is (2) German, referring to Friedrich Ratzel, who described the state as a living organism.