As a method of intellectual discourse, the concept of the subaltern is contentious because it originated as a Eurocentric method of historical enquiry for studying the non-Western people of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Sebagai metode diskursus intelektual, konsep subaltern kontroversial karena bermula sebagai metode penelitian sejarah Erosentris untuk mempelajari masyarakat non-Barat di Afrika, Asia, dan Timur Tengah.