Trusted for its timeliness and ample learning aids, this best-seller introduces geography as a social science by emphasizing the relevance of geographic concepts to human problems. Another main focus of the book is the relationship between globalization and cultural diversity, which is woven throughout the narrative. Rubenstein addresses these themes with a clear organization and presentation that you'll find both readable and engaging.

About the Author

Dr. James M. Rubenstein received his Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in 1975. His dissertation on French urban planning was later developed into a book entitled The French New Towns (Johns Hopkins University Press). In 1976 he joined the faculty at Miami University, where he is currently Professor of Geography. Besides teaching courses on urban and human geography and writing textbooks, Dr. Rubenstein also conducts research in the automotive industry and has published three books on the subject, The Changing U.S. Auto Industry: A Geographical Analysis (Routledge); Making and Selling Cars: Innovation and Change in the U.S. Auto Industry (The Johns Hopkins University Press); and Who Really Made Your Car? Restructuring and Geographic Change in the Auto Industry (W.E. Upjohn Institute, with Thomas Klier).

Originally from Baltimore, he is an avid Orioles fan. Winston, a lab mix, takes Dr. Rubenstein for a long walk in the woods every day.