Synopsis:
Despite the critical importance of the Middle East in U.S. and world affairs, Middle East Patterns continues to be the only comprehensive regional study of the area written by a U.S. geographer since 1960. This second edition retains the basic framework of its 1989 predecessor, examining the Middle East from a topical perspective and then from a regional, country-by-country viewpoint. A thoughtful consideration of the physical environment lays the groundwork for emphasis on cultural-political and geopolitical patterns, which are the essence of the study.This completely updated edition includes 55 new photographs that have been added to 40 photographs retained from the earlier work. Several fascinating then and now” photo pairs dramatically illustrate the development that has taken place in recent decades. Like the tables and graphs, the 61 thematic and regional maps were all especially created for the book: they have all been updated and are consistently styled, cleanly formatted, and easy to read.An ideal midlevel text for courses in regional geography of the Middle East, the book is also valuable for courses in Middle East history, politics, comparative government, and economics. Its lively style makes the book an essential resource as well for specialists and general readers interested in the area. Those working in the Middle East with oil companies, other commercial organizations, and government agencies will find it especially informative.
From the Inside Flap:
Now in its fifth edition, Middle East Patterns continues to be the most comprehensive and authoritative geographical study of the region. New coauthor John Thomas Cummings joins Colbert C. Held in updating this classic work while retaining the well-received framework of past editions. The authors first cover the Middle East from a topical perspective, considering the region’s biophysical, ethnographic, economic, and geopolitical patterns, and then provide in-depth country-by-country coverage. The fifth edition maintains the book’s distinctive focus on geography, natural resources, and land-use patterns while integrating updated comparative material on development economics and political economy throughout the book, as well as new sections on terrorism and piracy and the effects of development on women’s health issues. Richly illustrated with more than 100 photos and 60 maps, this acclaimed book remains the best accessible resource for students and general readers who seek to understand the spatial dynamics of the Middle East
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