Conclusion: Towards a multi-centred approach to commodity history

Clarence-Smith, W. G. and Vos, J. (2023) Conclusion: Towards a multi-centred approach to commodity history. In: Curry-Machado, J., Stubbs, J., Clarence-Smith, W. and Vos, J. (eds.) Oxford Handbook of Commodity History. Series: Oxford handbooks. Oxford University Press, pp. 679-696. ISBN 9780197502686 (doi: 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197502679.013.35)

Abstract

This chapter builds on the Handbook contributions to propose a new approach to commodity history that seeks to sidestep the enduring pitfalls of core-periphery thinking. The editors recommend a deeper integration of south-south, north-north, and north-south commodity flows into historical narratives, enhancing an understanding of global relationships from non-Western viewpoints. The editors further suggest that historians take a more nuanced view of the economic and environmental consequences of the production, trade, and consumption of commodities. A multi-centred approach can account for a variety of causal relationships in global commodity chains, and can help to assess the contributions of different places and actors, in terms that would have made sense to the people involved.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Additional Information: Print ISBN: 9780197502679.
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Vos, Dr Jelmer
• Authors: Clarence-Smith, W. G., and Vos, J.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > History
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• ISBN: 9780197502686