Preface
World Regional Geography takes a regional approach to globalization and world geography. The textbook was designed to provide accurate and current information regarding world regional geography in an easy-to-read format. Fundamental geographic concepts and regions are presented in concise chapters that provide a foundational framework for understanding development patterns around the world. Essential topics include location, the environment, and global economic dynamics. Important theories, concepts, and principles are utilized throughout the textbook for each region.
World Regional Geography focuses on the primary issues that have created our cultural and societal structures within a framework for global understanding. The text outlines a pattern of development from the imprint of European colonialism on culture to the impact that giant retail corporations like Walmart have on consumerism. Basic spatial concepts will be illustrated throughout the text to provide continuity of ideas and application of concepts to every region of the world.
World Regional Geography is succinct, concise, and to the point. The basic concepts are covered with real-world examples. The text is brief enough to provide flexibility for additional specialized information from outside sources to be added to the classroom discussion as the professor desires. Each concise chapter focuses on one subject or region. This format is ideal for the purpose of course management and flexibility. This book was designed for students to experience and study as much of the world as possible within a limited amount of time.
World Regional Geography provides students with a working knowledge of world geography. Special sections on relevant topics are distributed throughout the book. Learning objectives are presented before each section. Terms and key takeaways are included at the end of each lesson to support retention and stimulate critical thinking.
What's New in Version 2.0?
What prompted you to write your book? What were you were trying to accomplish?
The students at my university found it difficult to pay the high prices for textbooks, many that were only in print for a couple of years where the students couldn't sell them back. I wanted to use a textbook that was inexpensive, could be continually updated, and could be used for longer than a couple of years.
This version is updated from the first edition to make sure that the timeliness of the content is current. Examples of new topics include the Russia's invasion of the Crimea, Britain's exit from the EU, and updated information on the war in Syria. Other information was updated or added as needed for each region, including statements or material addressing the political situations in places like Libya or Myanmar.
The updates in this 2.0 edition followed the need to correct, edit or revise the material in the first edition, which was the initial publication of this textbook. The material will continually be reviewed to be updated and revised on a regular basis to insure that the content is current, appropriate, and holds academic value.
Many maps, photos, and images were updated to keep the material current.