Geographies of Developing Areas: The Global South in a Changing World

Book Details

• Author: Glyn Williams

• Brand: Routledge

• Edition: 2nd Edition

• Binding: Paperback

• Format: Illustrated

• Number of Pages: 376

• Release Date: 10-03-2014

• ISBN: 9780415643894

• Package Dimensions: 9.6 x 7.4 x 0.8 inches

• Languages: English

About the Book

"Geographies of Developing Areas" is a thought-provoking and accessible introductory textbook that presents a fresh perspective on the Global South. Rather than framing it solely as a region of issues, such as rapid urbanization or poverty, this book highlights the diversity of life in the South and its critical role in shaping and responding to global changes.

The core of the book blends traditional development geography concerns—such as economic development and social inequality—with often overlooked aspects of the Global South, including cultural identity and political conflict. The second edition has been fully updated to reflect current issues like security, risk, violence, environmental sustainability, climate change, and the impact of ICT on North-South and South-South exchanges.

The text challenges students to understand how space plays a central role in the directions and outcomes of change within the Global South. Emphasizing the spatial nature of political, economic, and socio-cultural processes, the book explores contemporary debates in development, cultural, economic, and political geographies. It also critically examines the power and limitations of development strategies while questioning the problematic nature of "Third World" images.

This edition features richly illustrated case studies from across the Global South, including full-color figures and photos. It also incorporates clear explanations of key terms, debates, and ideas, along with discussion questions and activities to enhance student learning. These features provide focused tasks for student research, enabling deeper exploration of key concepts and debates.

Review

"I have long been disappointed by texts in the area of study, and this is just a breath of fresh air! I will certainly be assigning chapters this semester and probably using it as a compulsory text next year. I have struggled to find ways to explain performativity and representation to second-year undergrads, and I can see that this text will do this perfectly." – Dr. Kelly Domboski, Department of Geography, University of Canterbury, New Zealand.

About the Author

• Dr. Glyn Williams: Reader in International Development and Planning, Department of Town and Regional Planning, University of Sheffield, UK.

• Dr. Paula Meth: Senior Lecturer, Department of Town and Regional Planning, University of Sheffield, UK.

• Professor Katie Willis: Professor of Human Geography and Director of the Politics, Development, and Sustainability Group, Royal Holloway, University of London, UK.