Topologies of Power Beyond territory and networks [Paperback]

Topologies of Poweramounts to a radical departure in the way that power and space have been understood. It calls into question the very idea that power is simply extended across a given territory or network, and argues that power today has a new found reach. Topological shifts have subtly altered the reach of power, enabling governments, corporations and NGOs alike to register their presence through quieter, less brash forms of power than domination or overt control. In a world in which proximity and distance increasingly play across one another, topology offers an insight into how power remains continuous under transformation: the same but different in its ability to shape peoples lives.

Drawing upon a range of political, economic and cultural illustrations, the book sets out a clear and accessible account of the topological workings of power in the contemporary moment. It will be invaluable for both students and academics in human geography, politics, sociology, and cultural studies.

1. Introduction: The changing same of power  Part I: Topological Twists  2. Power that Comes with the Territory: An easy geometry  3. Powers Shifting Reach: A topological distortion  4. Power Reproduced Differently: A topological practice  Part II: Powers of Reach  5. The Financial Engineering of Advantage: Power that defies maps  6. Folding in Distant Harms: Spatial experiments with NGO power  7. A Distorted State: Reproducing the power of borders differently  8. Conclusion: Power on the quiet

John Allenis Professor of Economic Geography in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at The Open University. His publications include Lost Geographies of Power (2003),in addition to twelve books, both authored and edited.