Anti-Area Studies

Abstract

The recent resurgence of various forms of popular nationalism and ethnocentrism in Australia and elsewhere raises questions about the impact which area studies have had in promoting international understanding. In the contemporary context of globalisation, it could be argued that the spatial framework of area studies is at times an obstacle rather than a help to understanding the world we live in. By reviewing the emergence of area studies and exploring the spatial concepts embodied in the area studies approach, this article seeks to assess some of the strengths and weaknesses of this approach, and to sketch out the possibility of an alternative 'anti-area studies' agenda for future research.

Keywords:

• Area Studies
• Civilisation
• Culture
• Australia