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Seismic Wave Propagation and Scattering in the Heterogeneous Earth: Second Edition
by Haruo Sato Michael C. Fehler Takuto MaedaSeismic waves - generated both by natural earthquakes and by man-made sources - have produced an enormous amount of information about the Earth's interior. In classical seismology, the Earth is modeled as a sequence of uniform horizontal layers (or spherical shells) having different elastic properties and one determines these properties from travel times and dispersion of seismic waves. The Earth, however, is not made of horizontally uniform layers, and classic seismic methods can take large-scale inhomogeneities into account. Smaller-scale irregularities, on the other hand, require other methods. Observations of continuous wave trains that follow classic direct S waves, known as coda waves, have shown that there are heterogeneities of random size scattered randomly throughout the layers of the classic seismic model. This book focuses on recent developments in the area of seismic wave propagation and scattering through the randomly heterogeneous structure of the Earth, with emphasis on the lithosphere. The presentation combines information from many sources to present a coherent introduction to the theory of scattering in acoustic and elastic materials and includes analyses of observations using the theoretical methods developed. The second edition especially includes new observational facts such as the spatial variation of medium inhomogeneities and the temporal change in scattering characteristics and recent theoretical developments in the envelope synthesis in random media for the last ten years. Mathematics is thoroughly rewritten for improving the readability. Written for advanced undergraduates or beginning graduate students of geophysics or planetary sciences, this book should also be of interest to civil engineers, seismologists, acoustical engineers, and others interested in wave propagation through inhomogeneous elastic media.
Seismic Wave Propagation in Non-Homogeneous Elastic Media by Boundary Elements
by George D. Manolis Petia S. Dineva Tsviatko V. Rangelov Frank WuttkeThis book focuses on the mathematical potential and computational efficiency of the Boundary Element Method (BEM) for modeling seismic wave propagation in either continuous or discrete inhomogeneous elastic/viscoelastic, isotropic/anisotropic media containing multiple cavities, cracks, inclusions and surface topography. BEM models may take into account the entire seismic wave path from the seismic source through the geological deposits all the way up to the local site under consideration. The general presentation of the theoretical basis of elastodynamics for inhomogeneous and heterogeneous continua in the first part is followed by the analytical derivation of fundamental solutions and Green's functions for the governing field equations by the usage of Fourier and Radon transforms. The numerical implementation of the BEM is for antiplane in the second part as well as for plane strain boundary value problems in the third part. Verification studies and parametric analysis appear throughout the book, as do both recent references and seminal ones from the past. Since the background of the authors is in solid mechanics and mathematical physics, the presented BEM formulations are valid for many areas such as civil engineering, geophysics, material science and all others concerning elastic wave propagation through inhomogeneous and heterogeneous media. The material presented in this book is suitable for self-study. The book is written at a level suitable for advanced undergraduates or beginning graduate students in solid mechanics, computational mechanics and fracture mechanics.
Seismic Wave Theory
by Edward S. KrebesPerfect for senior undergraduates and first-year graduate students in geophysics, physics, mathematics, geology and engineering, this book is devoted exclusively to seismic wave theory. The result is an invaluable teaching tool, with its detailed derivations of formulas, clear explanations of topics, exercises along with selected answers, and an additional set of exercises with derived answers on the book's website. Some highlights of the text include: a review of vector calculus and Fourier transforms and an introduction to tensors, which prepare readers for the chapters to come; and a detailed discussion on computing reflection and transmission coefficients, a topic of wide interest in the field; a discussion in later chapters of plane waves in anisotropic and anelastic media, which serves as a useful introduction to these two areas of current research in geophysics. Students will learn to understand seismic wave theory through the book's clear and concise pedagogy.
Seismic Waves in Soil Layers: Soil Behaviour During Recent Strong Earthquakes
by Olga V. PavlenkoThis book describes recent studies of soil behaviour in strong ground motion – one of the most important and problematic issues in engineering seismology. Destructive earthquakes worldwide show us the damage of structures located on soil foundations; therefore, reliable and adequate estimations of in situ soil behaviour during strong motion are needed. The effects of soil response proved to be more complicated and diverse than we thought previously. Additionally to well-known amplification of seismic waves in near-surface softer layers, resonant phenomena and nonlinearity of soil response, during the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, we observed soil hardening and generation of abnormally high accelerations. The author suggests a method for studying these effects in situ, to forecast soil behaviour in future earthquakes. The method is based on processing records of seismic vertical arrays, which are widely developed in the world and should help us in understanding soil response during earthquakes.The book is addressed to a wide range of seismologists, geotechnical earthquake engineers and physicists.
Seismoelectric Exploration: Theory, Experiments, and Applications (Geophysical Monograph Series #253)
by Niels Grobbe André Revil Zhenya Zhu Evert SlobSeismoelectric coupling and its current and potential future applications The seismoelectric method—the naturally-occurring coupling of seismic waves to electromagnetic fields—can provide insight into important properties of porous media. With a variety of potential environmental and engineering uses, as well as larger scale applications such as earthquake detection and oil and gas exploration, it offers a number of advantages over conventional geophysical methods. Seismoelectric Exploration: Theory, Experiments, and Applications explores the coupling between poroelastic and electromagnetic disturbances, discussing laboratory experiments, numerical modeling techniques, recent theoretical developments, and field studies. Volume highlights include: Physics of the seismoelectric effect at the microscale Governing equations describing coupled seismo-electromagnetic fields Examples of successful seismoelectric field experiments in different geological settings Current and potential applications of seismoelectric coupling Noise removal techniques for seismoelectric field measurements The American Geophysical Union promotes discovery in Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. Its publications disseminate scientific knowledge and provide resources for researchers, students, and professionals.
The Seismoelectric Method: Theory and Applications (Analytical Methods In Earth And Environmental Science Ser.)
by André Revil Abderrahim Jardani Paul Sava Allan HaasThe seismoelectric method consists of measuring electromagnetic signals associated with the propagation of seismic waves or seismic sources in porous media. This method is useful in an increasing number of applications, for example to characterize aquifers, contaminant plumes or the vadose zone. This book provides the first full overview of the fundamental concepts of this method. It begins with a historical perspective, provides a full explanation of the fundamental mechanisms, laboratory investigations, and the formulation of the forward and inverse problems. It provides a recent extension of the theory to two-phase flow conditions, and a new approach called seismoelectric beamforming. It concludes with a chapter presenting a perspective on the method. This book is a key reference for academic researchers in geophysics, environmental geosciences, geohydrology, environmental engineering and geotechnical engineering. It will also be valuable reading for graduate courses dealing with seismic wave propagation and related electromagnetic effects.
The Seismogenic Zone of Subduction Thrust Faults (MARGINS Theoretical and Experimental Earth Science Series)
by Timothy H. Dixon J. Casey MooreSubduction zones, one of the three types of plate boundaries, return Earth's surface to its deep interior. Because subduction zones are gently inclined at shallow depths and depress Earth's temperature gradient, they have the largest seismogenic area of any plate boundary. Consequently, subduction zones generate Earth's largest earthquakes and most destructive tsunamis. As tragically demonstrated by the Sumatra earthquake and tsunami of December 2004, these events often impact densely populated coastal areas and cause large numbers of fatalities. While scientists have a general understanding of the seismogenic zone, many critical details remain obscure. This volume attempts to answer such fundamental concerns as why some interplate subduction earthquakes are relatively modest in rupture length (greater than 100 km) while others, such as the great (M greater than 9) 1960 Chile, 1964 Alaska, and 2004 Sumatra events, rupture along 1000 km or more. Contributors also address why certain subduction zones are fully locked, accumulating elastic strain at essentially the full plate convergence rate, while others appear to be only partially coupled or even freely slipping; whether these locking patterns persist through the seismic cycle; and what is the role of sediments and fluids on the incoming plate.Nineteen papers written by experts in a variety of fields review the most current lab, field, and theoretical research on the origins and mechanics of subduction zone earthquakes and suggest further areas of exploration. They consider the composition of incoming plates, laboratory studies concerning sediment evolution during subduction and fault frictional properties, seismic and geodetic studies, and regional scale deformation. The forces behind subduction zone earthquakes are of increasing environmental and societal importance.
Select Topics in Signal Analysis
by Harish ParthasarathyThis book developed from a course given by the author to undergraduate and postgraduate students. It takes up Matrix Theory, Antenna Theory, and Probability Theory in detail. The first chapter on matrix theory discusses in reasonable depth the theory of Lie Algebras leading upto Cartan’s Classification Theory. It also discusses some basic elements of Functional Analysis and Operator Theory in infinite dimensional Banach and Hilbert spaces. The second chapter discusses Basic Probability Theory and the topics discussed find applications to Stochastic Filtering Theory for differential equations driven by white Gaussian noise. The third chapter is on Antenna Theory with a focus on Modern Quantum Antenna Theory. The book will be a valuable resource to students and early career researchers in the field of Mathametical Physics.
Selected Articles from the 2nd International Conference on Advanced Nanomaterials and Applications: ICANA 2024; 10-12 July, Amaravati, India (Springer Proceedings in Physics #413)
by Yogendra Kumar Mishra Giribabu Lingamallu Tufan GhoshThis book comprises selected articles from the 2nd International Conference on Advanced Nanomaterials and Applications (ICANA 2024) held from 10 to 12 July at Amaravati in India. It presents recent developments in the fields of nanoscale sciences. The topics covered in this book include energy storage and conversion, bio- and healthcare materials, sensors and actuators, functional materials, optical materials, and computational and simulation methods. This book is useful for researchers and professionals working in the various fields of nano- and material science.
Selected Articles of the 2nd International Conference on Spectroscopy in Materials Science: ICOSIMS-2024, 5-7 June, Portugal (Springer Proceedings in Physics #422)
by Suresh Kumar Jakka Pavani Krishnapuram Manuel Pedro Fernandes GraçaThis volume compiles selected articles from the 2nd International Conference on Spectroscopy in Materials Science (ICOSIMS-2024) held online on June 5-7 2024. It offers insights into recent developments in analytical techniques and spectroscopic methods vital to materials science. Hosted by the Department of Physics at the University of Aveiro, Portugal, the conference gathered experts across various fields to discuss innovative research and applications. The book covers topics such as light-matter interaction, materials characterization, and photon and phonon dynamics, featuring contributions from both established and emerging scholars. Spectroscopic techniques like infrared to ultraviolet-visible Raman, nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray crystallography and mass spectrometry are highlighted, addressing challenges in nanotechnology, biomedicine, and energy research. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, the volume includes contributions from participants from 15 countries. Keynote speeches and invited talks stimulated valuable discussions and knowledge exchange, prompting readers to explore new questions and methodologies influencing the future of spectroscopy. Intended for researchers, educators, and professionals in physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering, this conference proceedings volume serves as a resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding and stay informed on recent advancements in spectroscopy and materials science.
Selected Methods of Planning Analysis
by Xinhao Wang Rainer vom HofeThis book provides an up-to-date introduction to the fundamental methods related to planning and human services delivery. These methods aid planners in answering crucial questions about human activities within a given community. This book brings the pillars of planning methods together in an introductory text targeted towards senior level undergraduate and graduate students. Planning professionals will also find this book an invaluable reference.
The Selected Models of the Mesostructure of Composites: Percolation, Clusters, Force Fields (SpringerBriefs in Physics)
by Alexander HeregaThis book presents the role of mesostructure on the properties of composite materials. A complex percolation model is developed for the material structure containing percolation clusters of phases and interior boundaries. Modeling of technological cracks and the percolation in the Sierpinski carpet are described. The interaction of mesoscopic interior boundaries of the material, including the fractal nature of interior boundaries, the oscillatory nature of it interaction and also the stochastic model of the interior boundaries’ interaction, the genesis, structure, and properties are discussed. One of part of the book introduces the percolation model of the long-range effect which is based on the notion on the multifractal clusters with transforming elements, and the theorem on the field interaction of multifractals is described. In addition small clusters, their characteristic properties and the criterion of stability are presented.
Selected Papers From Volumes 33 and 34 of Vychislitel'naya Seysmologiya (Computational Seismology and Geodynamics #8)
by Alik Ismail-ZadePublished by the American Geophysical Union as part of the Computational Seismology and Geodynamics Series, Volume 8.The American Geophysical Union (AGU) and the Editorial Board of Computational Seismology and Geodynamics (CSG) are happy to present the eighth volume of CSG. This volume contains 19 selected, translated, and reviewed articles of volumes 33 and 34 of Vychislitel'naya Seismologiya (VS), which deal with seismicity and seismic hazard, forward and inverse problems in seismology, geodynamics, geomagnetism, and self-organized criticality. The Russian annual journal Vychislitel'naya Seysmologiya was established in 1966 by Volodya Keilis-Borok, one of most eminent geophysicists of our time, as a media for publication of the best results in the theoretical, computational and mathematical seismology. For a short period of time the journal had become a prominent and known among mathematical geophysicists around the world. In 1970s the journal began to publish also articles related to non-linear dynamics and earthquake prediction and later to computational geodynamics. Many distinguished seismologists, geophysicists, and mathematicians, like G. Barenblatt, A. Dziewonski, I. Gelfand, H. Huppert, H. Kanamori, L. Kantorovich, L. Knopoff, F. Press, D. Turcotte, and others, published their research articles in VS. Twenty-one volumes of the journal were translated and published by Allerton Press, USA. Since 1994 AGU agreed to publish selected and peer-reviewed articles in volumes entitled CSG. Volume 1 (159 pp.) 1994 selected articles from Volumes 22 & 23Volume 2 (188 pp.) 1994 selected articles from Volumes 24 & 25Volume 3 (236 pp.) 1996 selected articles from Volumes 26 & 27Volume 4 (200 pp.) 1999 selected articles from Volumes 28 & 29Volume 5 (132 pp.) 2003 selected articles from Volume 30Volume 6 (102 pp.) 2004 selected articles from Volume 31Volume 7 (250 pp.) 2005 selected articles from Volume 32Volume 8 (186 pp.) 2008 selected articles from Volumes 33 & 34
Selected Special Functions for Fundamental Physics (SpringerBriefs in Physics)
by Valeriya Akhmedova Emil T. AkhmedovThis book presents calculation methods that are used in both mathematical and theoretical physics. These methods will allow readers to work with selected special functions and more generally with differential equations, which are the most frequently used in quantum mechanics, theory of relativity and quantum field theory. The authors explain various approximation methods used to solve differential equations and to estimate integrals. They also address the basics of the relations between differential equations, special functions and representation theory of some of the simplest algebras on the one hand, and fundamental physics on the other. Based on a seminar for graduate physics students, the book offers a compact and quick way to learn about special functions. To gain the most from it, readers should be familiar with the basics of calculus, linear algebra, and complex analysis, as well as the basic methods used to solve differential equations and calculate integrals.
Selected Studies in Environmental Geosciences and Hydrogeosciences: Proceedings of the 3rd Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3) (Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation)
by Amjad Kallel Maurizio Barbieri Jesús Rodrigo-Comino Helder I. Chaminé Broder Merkel Haroun Chenchouni Jasper Knight Sandeep Panda Nabil Khélifi Ali Cemal Benim Stefan Grab Hesham El-Askary Santanu Banerjee Riheb Hadji Mehdi EshaghThis book gives a general overview on current research focusing on geoenvironmental issues and challenges in hydrogeosciences in the Middle East and Mediterranean region and surrounding areas. The book is based on the accepted papers for oral/poster presentations at the 3rd Springer Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3). Studies discuss the latest advances in geoenvironmental and hydrogeosciences from diverse backgrounds including climate change, geoecology, biogeochemistry, water resources management, and environmental monitoring and assessment. It shares insights on how the understanding of ecological, climatological, oceanic, and hydrological processes is the key for improving practices in environment management. It is of interest to scientists, engineers, practitioners, and policymakers in the field of environmental sciences including climatology, oceanography, ecology, biogeochemistry, environmental management, hydrology, hydrogeology, and geosciences in general. In particular, this book is of great value to students and environment-related professionals for further investigations on the state of earth systems.
Selected Studies in Geomorphology, Sedimentology, and Geochemistry: Proceedings of the 3rd Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3) (Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation)
by Federico Lucci Domenico M. Doronzo Jasper Knight Anna Travé Stefan Grab Amjad Kallel Sandeep Panda Helder I. Chaminé Jesús Rodrigo-Comino Sami Khomsi Santanu Banerjee Broder Merkel Haroun ChenchouniThis book is based on the papers accepted for presentation during the 3rd Springer Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3). The book is of interest to all researchers in the fields of geomorphology, sedimentology, and geochemistry. Papers in the field of geomorphology deal with topics related to fault slip and incision rates, soil science, landslides and debris flows, coastal processes, and geoarcheology and geoheritage. Papers in the field of sedimentology cover research studies in stratigraphy and environmental, tectonic, and diagenetic processes, together with studies focusing on the evolutionary, biostratigraphic, and paleo-environmental significance of paleontology. This section also contains papers on marine geosciences, from molecular proxies related to climate to geophysical surveys. The third set of papers focuses on studies related to geochemistry that are focused on sedimentary geochemistry and mineralogical characterization, magmatic and metamorphic processes and products, and the origin and exploration of mineral deposits. This book resumes the current situation related to the abovementioned topics mainly in the Mediterranean realm and its surroundings. The book is of interest to all researchers, practitioners, and students in the fields of geomorphology, sedimentology, and geochemistry.
Selected Studies in Geophysics, Tectonics and Petroleum Geosciences: Proceedings of the 3rd Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3) (Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation)
by Sami Khomsi Mourad Bezzeghoud Santanu Banerjee Mehdi Eshagh Ali Cemal Benim Broder Merkel Amjad Kallel Sandeep Panda Haroun Chenchouni Stefan Grab Maurizio BarbieriThis edited book is based on the best papers accepted for presentation during the 3rd Springer Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3). It is of interest to all researchers practicing geophysics/seismology, structural, and petroleum geology. It includes a set of research studies spanning a large spectrum of geological and geophysical topics with particular reference to Middle East, Mediterranean region, and Africa. It also presents a series of research methods that are nowadays in use for measuring, quantifying, and analyzing several geological domains. Papers cover new research studies on earthquake geodesy, seismotectonics, archeoseismology and active faulting, well logging methods, geodesy and exploration/theoretical geophysics, petroleum geochemistry, petroleum engineering, structural geology, basement architecture and potential data, tectonics and geodynamics, and thermicity, petroleum, and other georesources. The book follows a multidisciplinary approach which combined with the geodynamics of tectonic provinces and investigations of potential zones of natural resources (petroleum reservoirs) provides the basis for a more sustainability in the economic development.
Selected Studies in Geotechnics, Geo-informatics and Remote Sensing: Proceedings of the 3rd Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3) (Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation)
by Zeynal Abiddin Ergüler Riheb Hadji Helder I. Chaminé Jesús Rodrigo-Comino Amjad Kallel Broder Merkel Mehdi Eshagh Haroun Chenchouni Stefan Grab Murat Karakus Sami Khomsi Jasper Knight Mourad Bezzeghoud Maurizio Barbieri Sandeep Panda Ali Cemal Benim Hesham El-AskaryThis book contains the best papers accepted for presentation at the 3rd Springer Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences (CAJG-3). The book is divided into three parts to distinguish research studies from the fields of (1) geological and geotechnical engineering, (2) geomechanical studies based on numerical and analytical methods, and (3) geo-informatics and remote sensing. The content of these papers provides new scientific knowledge for further understanding on landslides, new stabilization techniques, importance of geophysics for engineering geology investigations as well as new empirical approaches for easily predicting some physical and hydrogeomechanical properties of geomaterials. It also sheds the light on usage of different remote sensing technologies, mapping techniques in a geographic information systems environment along with some advanced signal processing, and deep learning approaches. The book is of interest to all researchers, practitioners, and students in the fields of geological and mining engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydrogeomechanics, engineering geology, geotechnologies, groundwater and natural hazards, and analyses of some emerging earth processes and environmental variabilities.
Selected Topics on Improved Oil Recovery: Proceedings Of The International Conference On Improved Oil Recovery 2017
by Berihun Mamo Negash Sonny Irawan Taufan Marhaendrajana Sudjati Rachmat Luky Hendraningrat Andi Setyo Wibowo Hasian P. SiregarThis book presents articles from the International Conference on Improved Oil Recovery, CIOR 2017, held in Bandung, Indonesia. Highlighting novel technologies in the area of Improved Oil Recovery, it discusses a range of topics, including enhanced oil recovery, hydraulic fracturing, production optimization, petrophysics and formation evaluation.
Selections from the Journals: An Annotated Selection From The Journal Of Henry D. Thoreau (Dover Thrift Editions: Philosophy Ser.)
by Henry David Thoreau Walter HardingNoted Thoreau scholar offers rich selection of favorite excerpts from voluminous Journals. Masterly meditations on man, society, nature and many other subjects--expressed with verve and vigor in some of the most poetic prose in American literature. Perfect introduction to the great naturalist and his thought. Introduction.
Selenium Isotope Paleobiogeochemistry (Elements in Geochemical Tracers in Earth System Science)
by Eva E. Stüeken Michael A. KippThe attraction of selenium isotopes as a paleoenvironmental tracer lies in the high redox potential of selenium oxyanions (SeIV and SeVI), the dominant species in the modern ocean. The largest isotopic fractionations occur during oxyanion reduction, which makes selenium isotopes a sensitive proxy for the redox evolution of our planet. As a case study we review existing data from the Neoarchean and Paleoproterozoic, which show that significant isotopic fractionations are absent until 2.5 Ga, and prolonged isotopic deviations only appear around 2.3 Ga. Selenium isotopes have thus begun to reveal complex spatiotemporal redox patterns not reflected in other proxies.
Self-adjoint Extensions in Quantum Mechanics
by I. V. Tyutin D. M. Gitman B. L. VoronovThis exposition is devoted to a consistent treatment of quantization problems, based on appealing to some nontrivial items of functional analysis concerning the theory of linear operators in Hilbert spaces. The authors begin by considering quantization problems in general, emphasizing the nontriviality of consistent operator construction by presenting paradoxes to the naive treatment. It then builds the necessary mathematical background following it by the theory of self-adjoint extensions. By considering several problems such as the one-dimensional Calogero problem, the Aharonov-Bohm problem, the problem of delta-like potentials and relativistic Coulomb problemIt then shows how quantization problems associated with correct definition of observables can be treated consistently for comparatively simple quantum-mechanical systems. In the end, related problems in quantum field theory are briefly introduced. This well-organized text is most suitable for students and post graduates interested in deepening their understanding of mathematical problems in quantum mechanics. However, scientists in mathematical and theoretical physics and mathematicians will also find it useful.
Self-determinable Development of Small Islands
by Masahide Ishihara Eiichi Hoshino Yoko FujitaThis book aims to clarify the present situation of the relations between small island countries and territories on the one hand and the great powers, mainland areas, and mega-islands on the other, and explores how small island countries and territories preserve and build their identity under globalization. This book is divided into five parts. The first part presents papers on issues that are related to Okinawa: the American military presence, the formation of a global human network, and the history of and language revitalization in Okinawa. The second part includes papers on security in East Asia and the Pacific Region: the history of and present issues in international relations within the South and East China Sea areas. The third part presents papers on economic issues and social developments on small islands. The fourth part deals with ocean policies and marine resource management in the Pacific Region by the United States, Australia, and Japan. Finally, the fifth part presents papers on the revitalization of three indigenous languages. All the chapters of the book are based on the achievements of the research project "Towards New Island Studies: The Ryukyus as an academic node between East Asia and Oceania" conducted by the International Institute for Okinawan Studies at the University of the Ryukyus. This 5-year project was funded by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology and aimed to contribute academically to the creation of sustainable and self-determinable societies in small island regions. This work will be extremely useful and informative for readers in small island countries and territories and for researchers who are interested in small island issues to understand the current situation and who wish to consider effectual and feasible solutions.
Self-Determination and Secession in Africa: The Post-Colonial State (Routledge Studies in African Development)
by Redie BereketeabThis book provides a unique comparative study of the major secessionist and self-determination movements in post-colonial Africa, examining theory, international law, charters of the United Nations, and the Organisation of African Unity (OAU)/African Union’s (AU) stance on the issue. The book explores whether self-determination and secessionism lead to peace, stability, development and democratisation in conflict-ridden societies, particularly looking at the outcomes in Eritrea and South Sudan. The book covers all the major attempts at self-determination and secession on the continent, extensively analysing the geo-political, economic, security and ideological factors that determine the outcome of the quest for self-determination and secession. It reveals the lack of inherent clarity in international law, social science theories, OAU/AU Charter, UN Charters and international conventions concerning the topic. This is a major contribution to the field and highly relevant for researchers and postgraduate students in African Studies, Development Studies, African Politics and History, and Anthropology.
Self-Devouring Growth: A Planetary Parable as Told from Southern Africa (Critical Global Health: Evidence, Efficacy, Ethnography)
by Julie LivingstonUnder capitalism, economic growth is seen as the key to collective well-being. In Self-Devouring Growth Julie Livingston upends this notion, showing that while consumption-driven growth may seem to benefit a particular locale, it produces a number of unacknowledged, negative consequences that ripple throughout the wider world. Structuring the book as a parable in which the example of Botswana has lessons for the rest of the globe, Livingston shows how fundamental needs for water, food, and transportation become harnessed to what she calls self-devouring growth: an unchecked and unsustainable global pursuit of economic growth that threatens catastrophic environmental destruction. As Livingston notes, improved technology alone cannot stave off such destruction; what is required is a greater accounting of the web of relationships between humans, nonhuman beings, plants, and minerals that growth entails. Livingston contends that by failing to understand these relationships and the consequences of self-devouring growth, we may be unknowingly consuming our future.