African Studies and Research Forum Series Conceptualizations of Africa

This book discusses how Africa has been understood and defined across various academic fields. Building on the influential works of Valentin-Yves Mudimbe and more recent studies by Axel Fleisch and Rhiannon Stephens, this book bridges previous limitations by offering a comprehensive, interdisciplinary analysis. Each chapter examines the conceptualization of Africa within a specific discipline, balancing local and global perspectives, blending competing viewpoints, and providing suggestions for future research. The book will be essential for students, scholars, and researchers interested in a better understanding of the diverse and complex narratives that shape our knowledge of Africa and its intellectual heritage. This book discusses how Africa has been understood and defined across various academic fields. Building on the influential works of Valentin-Yves Mudimbe and more recent studies by Axel Fleisch and Rhiannon Stephens, this book bridges previous limitations by offering a comprehensive, interdisciplinary analysis. Each chapter examines the conceptualization of Africa within a specific discipline, balancing local and global perspectives, blending competing viewpoints, and providing suggestions for future research. The book will be essential for students, scholars, and researchers interested in a better understanding of the diverse and complex narratives that shape our knowledge of Africa and its intellectual heritage.