Development on the periphery: democratic transitions in southern and Eastern Europe

Abstract

In Development on the Periphery, noted textbook author Howard J.Wiarda tackles the important question of development in Southern and Eastern Europe. Both areas have undergone impressive transitions to democracy, experienced vast social changes, embraced open markets, developed Western political party systems, and joined the EU and NATO. However, the differences between the regions, and in particular, their individual countries, show us that development occurs by many routes-and that culture, geographic location, and timing do matter. Students of Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, and transitions to democracy will benefit from this accessible and thorough comparative study.