An Introduction to Human Geography: Issues for the 21st Century

An Introduction to Human Geography is an essential textbook for undergraduate students taking courses in geography and related disciplines in the social sciences. Comprehensively  revised, the third edition of this widely used text provides a global overview of the major topics within human geography. Focusing on key geographical challenges facing the world at the beginning of the twenty-first century, stimulating coverage examines the forces that shape economies and societies, and each chapter is written by a specialist in the field.

'This 3rd edition will confirm its status as a market leader, introducing new geographical content and a reinvigorated lively, stimulating, interactive and colourful student-centred approach. The textbook of choice for undergraduate geography students.'

Professor Mark Boyle, National University of Ireland, Maynooth

'Written by some of the leading experts in their fields, "An Introduction to Human Geography" covers many of the key ideas and concepts in an engaging and student-friendly style. The book is likely to set the agenda for course texts in human geography'

Professor Adrian Smith, Queen Mary, University of London

'... an insightful look into the rich fields of human geography ... not afraid of crossing boundaries and to explore progressive fields of human geography.'

Freerk J. Boedeltje, Nijmegen Centre for Border Research, Radboud University Nijmegen

'... a fine, well-written and well-organised textbook. We recommend unreservedly.'

Professors Sallie Marston and Kim Elmore, University of Arizona

Comprehensively revised, the third edition of this widely used text provides a global overview of the major topics within human geography, including resources, population, the economy and development, geopolitics and territory, culture, society, cities, the environment and environmentalism, inequality, agriculture and rurality, and the politics of place and globalisation. Coherent and substantial chapters ensure balanced treatment across the range of contemporary human geography.

Focusing on key geographical challenges facing the world at the beginning of the twenty-first century, stimulating coverage examines the forces that shape economies and societies. Themes, issues and links are highlighted and emphasised to present a holistic view of what the editors describe as our ‘... interconnected, contradictory, complex, conflict-ridden and fantastically diverse planet.’ All chapters are written by specialists in the field and offer original, critical and engaging perspectives.

New to the third edition:

• Full-colour presentation brings out the vitality and colour of the people and places.
• Introductory chapter shows what human geography is, its origins, and why it matters.
• Re-enforced social, cultural and environmental coverage with new chapters on Cities: social and economic inequalities, Rural Worlds and The Social Constructions of Nature.
• A more personal approach to human geography issues explored in the context of  the reader’s likely experience.
• More critical coverage and currency with the latest controversies, debates and hot topics.
• More on key phenomena in 21st century life - the social production of nature, global production networks, service economies and the second global shift.
• A continued range of pedagogical features that help clarify, extend and apply understanding.

An  innovative website supports the text at www.booksites.net/daniels. Go there to access practical study skills guidance, including material on improving essay-writing, strategies for note-taking and revision, and planning exam answers.

 An Introduction to Human Geography is an essential textbook for undergraduate students taking courses in geography and related disciplines in the social sciences.

Peter Daniels and Denis Shaw are at the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham. Mike Bradshaw is at the Department of Geography, University of Leicester.  James Sidaway is at the School of Geography, University of Plymouth.