Since the 1990s, the 'true knowledge' on Central Asia has been embedded in the 'five stans' (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) spatial discourse. This book argues that, in international relations, this 'five stans' spatial discourse determines the conceptual boundaries of Central Asia. The book asserts that the 'five stans' spatial discourse is territorially trapped; hence it is limited to explain the political and economic processes taking place 'on the ground' in the region. Through a re-reading of the 'five stans' discourse, the book introduces an alternative methodology, drawing upon Niklas Luhmann's social systems theory. (Series: International Politics / Internationale Politik - Vol. 21) [Subject: Asian Studies, International Relations, Politics]