Abstract

Our concept of border was shaped in particular by European history. Nevertheless, we apply it to phenomena outside the Western world which have their own complex history and for which other cultures and languages have created their own terms and concepts. Moreover, a closer view reveals that in other cultures throughout history, concepts of different origin have met and mingled and that without saying the terms used are always accompanied by specific cultural connotations. Here, the complex and temporary nature of borders is exemplified by a region in the heart of Asia, which today is not organized as a nation-state and which rarely has obtained the attention of general research on borders and border areas but spread over various states and Chinese provinces. The Tibetan Plateau is an example of the complexity and historical dynamics of borders and border areas.