Reterritorialization

Reterritorialization is a concept in cultural geography and social theory that refers to the process by which a physical or social space is reclaimed or redefined in a new way. This process often occurs in response to deterritorialization, a term that describes the loss of the social, political, or cultural ties that bind a group of people to a specific location.

Overview

Reterritorialization is often associated with the work of Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari, two French philosophers who used the term to describe the way in which capitalist societies constantly reinvent themselves in order to maintain control and power. In their view, reterritorialization is a necessary counterpoint to deterritorialization, as it allows for the re-establishment of social and cultural norms in new contexts.

Examples

One example of reterritorialization can be seen in the way that immigrant communities often recreate aspects of their home culture in their new surroundings. This can include the establishment of ethnic neighborhoods, the continuation of traditional practices, and the use of native languages. Another example can be seen in the way that corporations often adapt their products and marketing strategies to fit the cultural norms of different countries or regions.

Criticism

Critics of the concept of reterritorialization argue that it oversimplifies the complex processes of cultural change and adaptation. They also point out that it can be used to justify oppressive practices, such as the forced assimilation of indigenous peoples or the gentrification of urban neighborhoods.

See also

• Cultural geography
• Social theory
• Gilles Deleuze
• Félix Guattari
• Deterritorialization