The State thesis, a Curb on or Wellspring for Disciplinary Innovation?
French geography underwent a paradigm shift from 1960 to 1980. How did the State thesis contribute to this process? Today, it is mainly considered as having been a barrier to innovation. However, the opposite viewpoint – that the thesis could actually stimulate innovation – deserves consideration. The State thesis is currently undervalued by the university community, and the negative images associated with it block a clear perception of its role. Within a particular genre and writing style, and with its associated environment, the State thesis was very innovative. Here the concept of underdevelopment is used to try to understand the processes and rhythms of innovation in the State thesis.