Jordan occupies centre stage in both Middle Eastern and Arabic politics, yet the kingdom itself is comparatively under-researched. This volume contains contributions from some of Jordan's most respected academics in the field of geography, economics and political science. A number of international specialists in Jordan have also made valuable contributions. The work covers important aspects of the Jordanian economic and political scene which have not yet been written about in English. Aspects of Jordan's consumer society are examined, including the question of foreign aid support, the role of the private sector, and the demand for consumer durables. The economic vulnerability which an open consumer society faces is illustrated in the chapter on the balance of payments and inflation. Despite economic and political problems, it is argued that Jordan has exhibited a certain economic resilience and that a national identity has been successfully fostered.