Changing Paradigms of Territory and Boundary Studies in Political Geography

Abstract

Boundary studies as a sub-discipline of political geography has undergone several momentous transformations during its evolution. The classical period was predominantly concerned with demarcating the ideal boundary for achieving a stable geopolitical order. This changed during the latter part of the 20th century when scholars began contemplating the role of boundary as a social force. Postmodern understanding of boundaries concerned itself with questions of identity and the narratives of boundary. The focus on territory and territoriality marks another departure from contractual boundary between states to a more cultural notion. In stark contrast to the spatial perception of boundary and territory stands the stream of literature exploring social boundaries investigating the symbolic boundaries that facilitate the social differentiation between various groups of people. The present study comprehensively reviews the three intertwined branches and indicates the need to fuse these traditions and offer suggestions on how to do so. The article also contemplates necessary adaptations to the field going forward.