ABSTRACT
The aim of this Chapter is to provide a framework for the rest of the book in terms of definitions, contexts and perspectives. Whereas much of the book focuses on different typologies of cultural tourism and interrelationships between the cultural sectors, this chapter is more conceptual, introducing many of the recurrent themes that underpin the text. This includes the historical context of imperialism and post-colonialism that has given rise to the redefinition of cultural boundaries and identities; the geographical, social and political location of cultural tourism within the globalisation process; and an analysis of the validity of a postmodern approach to cultural tourism studies. As a multi-disciplinary subject, cultural tourism studies clearly necessitates an awareness and understanding of a wide range of international issues. By providing an historical, political, social and geographical framework for the analysis of cultural tourism, it is hoped that appreciation of the widereaching significance of this fascinating phenomenon will be furthered.
