Includes bibliographical references (pages 221-242) and index.

Introduction: social theory beyond empire -- Waves of postcolonial thought -- The postcolonial challenge -- Reconnecting relations -- The subaltern standpoint -- Conclusion: for a third wave.

'Postcolonial Thought and Social Theory' maps the convergences and differences between these two seemingly opposed bodies of thought. It explores the different waves of postcolonial thought, elaborates the postcolonial critique of social theory, and charts different strategies for crafting a postcolonial social science.