Decolonial Social Theory

This final substantive chapter introduces decolonial theory. The introduction to the chapter explains why this area of study remains relevant today in a world of purportedly ‘free’ sovereign nation-states. The difference between decolonial and postcolonial thought is then briefly outlined. The chapter then moves on to outline related key concepts: the coloniality of power, eurocentrism, epistemicide, subalternity, and modernity/coloniality. The focus then shifts to discuss how decolonial theory is shaping social research today. Two particular areas are identified: a drive towards epistemic diversity and an inclusion of ‘global’ (i.e. non-Western) forms of social theory and social research within the core of the academy, rather than being studied as ‘exotic’ Other forms of thought within Oriental Studies. The focus then shifts to discussing the problems faced by decolonial theorists today. In particular, the discussion raises the charge that much decolonial theory risks being largely symbolic and impotent, as well as being open to co-optation. The charge of neo-nativism is also discussed. The chapter concludes by suggesting that decolonial theory is very much ‘of the hour,’ and the overall impact the tradition will have had will need to be assessed in years to come.

Sociology · Anthropological Studies and Insights · Colonial History and Postcolonial Studies · Political Economy and Marxism · Psychology