This is a study of the vast steppe region of inner Asia, historically dominated by Mongol culture, Buddhist-Shamanist religion, and an economy based on mobile pastoralism. Pastoralism in inner Asia is not timeless nomadism , but rather a series of local knowledges and techniques located in particular historical circumstances. Modern herders must adapt their economic cultures as best they can to rapid institutional changes and divergent state policies. The text discusses the possible demise of the nomadic way of life, arguing that mobility and district-level management will continue to be necessary if pastoralism is to be successful and sustainable in the steppe environment. In the light of ongoing programmes of sedentarization and privatization, the authors’ thesis implies not only new directions for research, but the desirability for the three central governments of rethinking policy on pastoralism.