Borders

This second edition explores the dynamic role of borders in shaping economic, social, and political landscapes, addressing contemporary issues like migration, security, and nationalism, reflecting on significant global developments over the past decade.

The second edition of Borders: A Very Short Introduction reexamines the concept of borders, challenging the traditional view of them as mere lines on a map. Instead, the book presents borders as dynamic forces that significantly influence economic, social, political, and environmental processes in our lives. Originally published in 2012, this edition reflects on the notion that we inhabit a world defined by borders, a theme that has only become more pronounced in the decade since its initial release.

The past ten years have seen a multitude of events that underscore the importance of borders in both domestic and international contexts. Issues such as increased migration and refugee flows, heightened border security measures, and maritime sovereignty disputes have brought borders to the forefront of public discourse. Technological advancements in cybersecurity, surveillance, and biometrics have further complicated the landscape, while the rise of populism and nationalism has fueled debates about identity and belonging.

This revised edition incorporates significant recent developments, including Brexit, the 2015 European migration crisis, and efforts to construct a border wall between the United States and Mexico. It also addresses the growing isolationist and nativist sentiments, demands for indigenous rights, and the emergence of transnational protest movements. Additionally, the book considers geopolitical tensions, such as Russian incursions and ongoing conflicts in North Africa and Southwest Asia, emphasizing the ever-evolving role of borders in shaping our contemporary world.