Postscript: Continuing the Work

Summary

We have approached this edited collection with an ambitious agenda; to create further space to develop and extend pluralized contemporary economic geographies. This is a task that can only be achieved collectively, and so it is fitting to start our ending by thanking all the contributors to the collection. The work of pluralizing and diversifying is not an equal or shared task, and we are mindful that the labour of doing ‘diversity work’ often falls to those individuals who are most deeply affected by the problems of privilege and exclusivity. Thus, a collection such as this is more than the sum of its parts, and more than can be seen written on the pages. It represents a collective vision for how to do things differently. In this postscript we take the opportunity to outline what we hope may come from this collection as part of a broader project which brings in you, the readers. This is less of a ‘last word’ and more of a call to action.

One of the main ways in which we anticipate this book will be adopted is as a teaching resource across multiple disciplines and learning stages. With a wide range of topics and themes, concepts and approaches, from across disciplinary and empirical contexts, the collection offers rich material for teaching pluralistic economic geographies. The chapters are designed to be pithy, accessible and inspiring. As such, they are useful as key readings and introductory texts for foundational undergraduate modules across the social sciences. At the same time, due to the depth and breadth of the contributing chapters, the collection also offers materials for optional courses which explore contemporary economic issues in more detail.

Moreover, with a focus on previous, current and future research agendas, we expect the collection will appeal to students and scholars alike in developing ideas for their own studies (for example, scoping projects, dissertations, funded research). The act of pluralizing any discipline involves active participation and learning, regardless of educational or career stage. Indeed, this collection brings together scholars from a wide range of approaches, perspectives and backgrounds.

Added to this, pluralizing any discipline is a process that requires time and effort. This includes thinking about not just what we write about but how we write.