Conflicts surrounding modern human mobility are over a hundred years old, and are deeply connected to the history of modernization and globalization. The multidisciplinary contributions in this volume do not offer a single theory or methodology for mobility studies, but instead promote the development of overarching approaches in the future.
The concept of mobility is the umbrella for this interdisciplinary collection on the effect of human movement on the world and of modes of transportation on people. From concrete articles on business travelers and mass transit to the existential results of internal change and the importance of ecotheology in society, the variety of ways in which the topic is approached is amazing. Bergmann (religious studies, Norwegian University of Science and Technology), Hoff (psychology, University of Oslo) and Sager (civil and transport engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology) are examples of the different fields involved in this approach. While the mechanics of mobility are considered, the main focus of the articles is the ways in which humans change and are changed by, the expansion of their environment. Distributed in North America by The David Brown Book Co. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
Human mobility is dramatically on the rise; globalization and modern technology have increased transportation and migration. Frequent journeys over large distances cause huge energy consumption, severely impact local and global natural environments and raise spiritual and ethical questions about our place in the world. 'Spaces of Mobility' presents an analysis of the socio-political, environmental, and ethical aspects of mobility. The volume brings together essays that examine why and how modern modes of transport emerge, considering their effect on society. The religious significance of contemporary travel is outlined, namely its impact on pilgrimage, Christology and ethics. The essays examine the interaction between humans and their surroundings and question how increased mobility affects human identity and self-understanding. 'Spaces of Mobility' will be of interest to students and scholars seeking to understand the impact of mobility on modern culture and society, the ethics behind contemporary transport systems and the conditions of immigrants in a world of constant travel.
