About
David Bennett is a retired Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Carleton University, affiliated with the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. He holds a B.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Liverpool, specializing in behavioural geography and spatial decision-making. His research focuses on the intersections of geography with health care, philosophy, and social justice. Bennett has contributed significantly to interdisciplinary studies, serving as Chair of Geography (1988–1990), Associate Director of the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies (2004–2005), and Coordinator of Directed Interdisciplinary Studies (2004–2007).
Education:
- B.A. Hons in Geography, University of Liverpool (1963–1966)
- Ph.D. in Behavioural Geography and Spatial Decision-Making, University of Liverpool (1972)
Research interests emphasize applying philosophical frameworks to geographical inquiry, particularly exploring how health, spatial decision-making, and social justice intersect. His work challenges traditional positivist methodologies in favor of critical rationalist approaches, as seen in his contributions to the International Encyclopedia of Human Geography (2009). His studies on disability and health geographies, such as the Ottawa Multiple Sclerosis narratives (2004), highlight spatial dimensions of chronic illness.
Bennett advised 35 graduate students and pioneered courses in Quantitative Methods, Medical Geography, and Philosophy of Geography at Carleton. His career included leadership roles like President of the Carleton University Faculty Association (CUASA, 1981–1982).
