Postcolonialism

Postcolonialism is a book that explores the influence of postcolonial theory in critical geographical thought and scholarship. It is structured around three intersecting parts: Spaces, Identity/hybridity, and Knowledge, and argues that postcolonialism is an intellectually creative and practical set of methodologies for critically engaging existing manifestations of power and exclusion. It also demonstrates the importance of postcolonial theory to the contemporary critical geographical imagination and argues that geographers have much to offer to continued theorizations and workings of postcolonial theory, politics, and intellectual debates.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Postcolonialism is a comprehensive and thought-provoking book that delves into the profound impact of postcolonial theory on critical geographical thought and scholarship. Written with advanced-level students and researchers in mind, this book serves as an engaging and relevant introduction to the field of "postcolonial geography." It elaborates on the critical interventions that this important subfield is poised to make in social, cultural, and political life.

The book is organized into three interconnected parts: Spaces, Identity/Hybridity, and Knowledge. These parts broadly reflect the trajectory of postcolonial studies since the late 1970s. It comprises ten main chapters, each situated at the intersections of postcolonialism and critical human geography. Through these chapters, Postcolonialism develops three key arguments.

Firstly, the book posits that postcolonialism can be best understood as an intellectually creative and practical set of methodologies or approaches for critically engaging existing manifestations of power and exclusion in everyday life and in taken-for-granted spaces. It emphasizes the importance of challenging and subverting the dominant narratives and power structures that shape our understanding of the world.

Secondly, postcolonialism is centrally concerned with the politics of representation. It explores how people and spaces are represented, as well as the politics surrounding who has the authority to represent themselves and on what/whose terms. The book challenges the notion of Western-centric and colonialist representations and seeks to promote more inclusive and diverse perspectives.

Thirdly, Postcolonialism argues that postcolonialism itself is an inherently geographical intellectual enterprise, despite its origins in literary theory. It recognizes the spatial dimensions of power, colonization, and resistance and emphasizes the importance of geographers in contributing to the ongoing theorizations and workings of postcolonial theory, politics, and intellectual debates.

Throughout the book, the author employs a range of relevant and international case studies and examples to illustrate their arguments and demonstrate the practical applications of postcolonial theory in geography. These case studies cover various regions and topics, including Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas, providing a rich and diverse perspective on the complexities of postcolonialism.

In conclusion, Postcolonialism is a valuable resource for advanced-level students and researchers interested in exploring the intersection of geography, politics, and culture. It offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of the influence of postcolonial theory on critical geographical thought and scholarship. Through its engaging and accessible writing style, the book provides a lively and stimulating introduction to the field of "postcolonial geography." It encourages readers to critically engage with the power structures and narratives that shape our world and to work towards promoting more inclusive and equitable societies.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 221 x 155 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138677487