Non-representational Theory

by Paul Simpson

Overview

Non-representational Theory explores a range of ideas which have recently engaged geographers and have led to the development of an alternative approach to the conception, practice, and production of geographic knowledge. Non-representational Theory refers to a key body of work that has emerged in geography over the past two and a half decades that emphasizes the importance of practice, embodiment, materiality, and process to the ongoing formation of social life. This title offers the first sole-authored, accessible introduction to this work and its impact on geography.

Without being prescriptive the text provides a general explanation of what Non-representational Theory is. This includes discussion of the disciplinary context it emerged from, the key ideas and themes that characterise work associated with Non-representational Theory, and the theoretical points of reference that inspires it. The book then explores a series of conjunctions of ‘Non-representational Theory and...’, taking an area of geographic enquiry and exploring the impact Non-representational Theory has had on how it is researched and understood. This includes the relationships between Non-representational Theory and Practice, Affect, Materiality, Landscape, Performance, and Methods. Critiques of Non-representational Theory are also broached, including reflections on issues on identity, power, and difference.

The text draws together the work of a range of established and emerging scholars working on the development of non-representational theories, allowing scholars from geography and other disciplines to access and assess the animating potential of such work. This volume is essential reading for undergraduates and post-graduate students interested in the social, cultural, and political geographies of everyday living.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781138552197
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	11/23/2020
Series:	Key Ideas in Geography
Pages:	266
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Paul Simpson is Associate Professor of Human Geography at the University of Plymouth where he is Co-leader of The Centre for Research in Environment and Society. His research focuses on the everyday life of urban spaces and often proceeds through a combination of ethnographic research and engagements with non-representational theories and post-phenomenological philosophies.

Table of Contents

List of figures viii

List of boxes ix

Acknowledgments x

Introduction 1

1 Non-representational theories and geography 16

2 Non-representational theories and practice 43

3 Non-representational theories and affect 72

4 Non-representational theories and materiality 104

5 Non-representational theories and landscape 135

6 Non-representational theories and performance 164

7 Non-representational theories and method 193

Concluding 219

References 225

Index 247