Africa south of the Sahara : a geographical interpretation / Robert Stock.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction : new beginnings? -- The map of Africa -- Imagining Africa : roots of Western perceptions of the continent -- Thinking about development : development theory and practice in the African context -- African culture : diversity and creativity -- Societal diversity : language, ethnicity, and religion -- Gender dynamics : men and women in African societies -- Geology and geomorphology of Africa -- Africa's climate : regions, dynamics, and change -- Biogeography and ecology -- The African past -- The colonial legacy -- Independent Africa : politics and development -- Population distribution -- Population growth -- Population mobility -- Africa in the world economy -- National economies : strategies for growth and development -- Prospects for economic integration -- Indigenous food production systems -- Agrarian development and change -- Food security -- The evolution of urban structure -- Urban economies -- Urban living environments -- Mineral and energy resources -- Water resources -- Flora and fauna as economic resources -- Living in poverty -- Social policy : the health sector -- Children in Africa : prospects for the next generation -- Conclusion : Which future?

Overview: This Authoritative, Widely Adopted Text Provides A Broad Introduction To The Geography Of Africa south of the Sahara. The book analyzes the political, economic, social, and environmental processes that shape resource use and development in this large, diverse region. Students gain a context for understanding current development debates and addressing questions about the nature and sustainability of contemporary changes. Timely topics include the rise of foreign investment in Africa, the evolving geographies of rural-urban linkages, the birth of the Republic of South Sudan, and advances in the struggle against HIV/AIDS. New to This Edition: Fully updated to reflect the latest data and trends in development. Chapters on development theory, cultural and societal diversity, the political geography of postindependence Africa, economic integration, and the geography of poverty. Substantially revised coverage of gender dynamics, urban living environments, mineral and energy resources, and many other topics. Pedagogical Features Include: Vignettes in every chapter that provide detailed case studies from a variety of countries and elaborate on key concepts. Recommendations for further reading on each topic, including print and online sources. Downloadable PowerPoint slides of all original figures, photos, and tables. An extensive glossary.