This book analyses the impact of human activities on the Earth's surface and environment.

Theory of Modeling and Simulation: Discrete Event & Iterative System Computational Foundations, Third Edition, continues the legacy of this authoritative and complete theoretical work. It is ideal for graduate and PhD students and working engineers interested in posing and solving problems using the tools of logico-mathematical modeling and computer simulation. Continuing its emphasis on the integration of discrete event and continuous modeling approaches, the work focuses light on DEVS and its potential to support the co-existence and interoperation of multiple formalisms in model components. New sections in this updated edition include discussions on important new extensions to theory, including chapter-length coverage of iterative system specification and DEVS and their fundamental importance, closure under coupling for iteratively specified systems, existence, uniqueness, non-deterministic conditions, and temporal progressiveness (legitimacy). - Presents a 40% revised and expanded new edition of this classic book with many important post-2000 extensions to core theory - Provides a streamlined introduction to Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) formalism for modeling and simulation - Packages all the "need-to-know" information on DEVS formalism in one place - Expanded to include an online ancillary package, including numerous examples of theory and implementation in DEVS-based software, student solutions and instructors manual

`The most up-to-date survey of the range of research in contemporary sociology, extremely useful to students, teachers, and researchers alike. Indispensable for collective and personal libraries′ - Immanuel Wallerstein, Maison des Sciences de l′Homme, Paris This unique Handbook provides state-of-the-art reviews of sociology conducted by prominent scholars. Drawing on dedicated knowledge and expertise, the book constitutes an unrivalled guide to the central theoretical and methodological perspectives in the discipline as a whole. The book is organized into six parts: o conceptual perspectives o social and cultural differentiation o changing institutions and collective action o demography, cities and housing o art and leisure o social problems Each chapter includes a comprehensive review of the literature, covering the full range of work from contrasting traditions of thought and approaches. No existing work matches this Handbook for scholarly coverage and relevance. It is a primary resource for understanding the discipline. As such, it will appeal to lecturers, researchers and advanced graduate and undergraduate students in Sociology.