Emil Mazúr (1925–1990): scientist, educator, manager and visionary of geography

Abstract

Professor Emil Mazúr (1925-1990) was a key figure in (Czecho)Slovak geography, who shaped the fields of geomorphology, regional geography, geoecology, environmental geography and theoretical geography. The paper analyses the stages of Mazúr’s scientific career, presenting the most significant research results, while pointing out key discontinuities and his influential works, which laid the foundations of modern geographical thought in Slovakia. The evolution of his research is characterised by a transition from early geomorphological studies to integrated geoecological and environmental frameworks, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to landscape analysis and synthesis. The text presents the results of a comprehensive geomorphological analysis and synthesis, the search for a synthesis of natural landscape and its use in the cultural landscape, the formulation of the concept of landscape synthesis and its implementation, key contributions within theoretical geography and especially outputs confirming the relevance of geography in scientific development and in social practice. Mazúr’s contributions, through the introduction of systems thinking and regional synthesis, exerted a significant influence on the field of Slovak geography, and, at the very least, on the disciplines of Central and Eastern European geography. Simultaneously, it is important to acknowledge his pivotal role in establishing the primary geographical workplace in Slovakia. Furthermore, his proficiency in orchestrating scientific programmes, teaching activities, leading editorial boards and assuming senior positions in national bodies is also noteworthy.