Climate Variability, Climate Change and Social Vulnerability in the Semi-arid Tropics (International Hydrology Series) [Hardcover]

Jesse C. Ribot (Editor), Antonio Rocha Magalhães (Editor), Stahis Panagides (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 28, 1996 | Series: International Hydrology Series

Climate changes can trigger events that lead to mass migration, hunger, and even famine. Rather than focus on the impacts that result from climatic fluctuations, the authors look at the underlying conditions that cause social vulnerability. Once we understand why individuals, households, nations, and regions are vulnerable, and how they have buffered themselves against climatic and environmental shifts, then present and future vulnerability can be redressed. By using case studies from across the globe, the authors explore past experiences with climate variability, and the likely effects of--and the possible policy responses to--the types of climatic events that global warming might bring.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This book does an excellent job focusing attention on the semiarid tropics....This book addresses a wide audience." Michael J. Hayes, The Bulletin of The American Meteorological Society

"...the reader will learn a lot about SETI...by the end of the book...a good book for anyone looking for a serious overview of SETI." SpaceViews

"Extraterrestrial Intelligence is a primer for our time." Astronomy

"...perfect for newcomers to the topic. A healthy dose of science is added to elevate this beyond the pop realm." The Bookwatch

"...engaging, galaxy-sweeping survey of the past, present, and future of this longshot but exciting field of research...includes many fascinating details from the various space probes that have examined Haley's comet, panets and moons in our solar system, and other phenomena in our galaxy...is a must read for anyone with a serious interest in up-to-date coverage of SETI and the people who are making it happen." Rapport

"This book is a must read for those pondering the true meaning behind the claim of possible micro-fossils on Mars." Space News Book Reviews

"Heidmann's obvious joy in raw speculation--all of it grounded in real science--is contagious." Amazon.com

Book Description

The effects of climate change can be devastating to the surrounding communities, resulting in consequences such as mass migration, hunger and famine. Rather than attributing the blame to nature, the authors look at the social processes and organisation of the society to find the causes. Through case studies from across the globe, this volume explores past experiences with climate variability, and the likely effects of, and possible policy responses to the types of climate events that global warming might bring.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 189 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (June 28, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521480744
• ISBN-13: 978-0521480741
• Product Dimensions: 12 x 8.5 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.9 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,899,815 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)