Changing geographies of the state: themes, challenges and futures

Abstract

In this extensive introductory chapter, we introduce the reader to some basic information and concepts underpinning geographical approaches to the state. We first make a rudimentary mapping of some of the geographical approaches to the state before the 1970s. Second, we consider some more recent approaches that have appeared since the 1980s. Third, we reflect upon ‘methodological globalism’ as one of the challenges in a geographical study of the state as a dynamic socio-spatial organization. Finally, we outline research topics that merit attention in future research on the changing geographies of the state.