"The consequential age we are living in will be remembered as one of the great turning points in civilization. Once we turn, though, where will we be? That is the compelling question Al Gore sets out to answer by examining the drivers of global change, connecting the dots among the social, economic, and political forces shaping our present and future. A rising global consciousness is forcing people around the world, but especially Americans, to rethink...

"Does globalization help everyone or just the rich? Is it the enemy of sustainability or the only hope against climate change? Rival camps are dug in, but Anthea Roberts and Nicolas Lamp find points of agreement. Isolating the value conflicts that drive the globalization debate, they show where consensus lies and argue for achievable policy change"--

The author presents his theories about how soccer in different countries creates an understanding of how international forces affect politics and life in the world.

"From bestselling author and TIME Magazine columnist Ian Bremmer, a definitive guide to understanding the global wave of populist nationalism. From political upheaval in Europe and the United States to an explosion of anger in the developing world, social and political turmoil has dominated recent headlines. What explains public rejection of the entire political establishment in country after country? What does this mean for the future of the United...

A World History of Rubber helps readers understand and gain new insights into the social and cultural contexts of global production and consumption, from the nineteenth century to today, through the fascinating story of one commodity. Divides the coverage into themes of race, migration, and labor; gender on plantations and in factories; demand and everyday consumption; World Wars and nationalism; and resistance and independence ; Highlights the interrelatedness...

In these three poignant essays, prolific author Wendell Berry reflects deeply on the current sources of world hope and despair. Thoughts in the Presence of Fear, written in response to the September 11 attacks, has since been reprinted in 73 countries and seven languages. The three essays provide a much-needed road map to a full cultural recovery.

Examines the significance of place in terms of the global economy and our individual lives, careers, and social networks and includes city rankings by life stage that reveal the best places for singles, families, and empty-nesters to live.