Book Abstract: This collection of essays focuses on the complexity and importance of Pakistan as both a positive and negative influence on stability in the south and central Asian regions. It provides systematic analyses of environment, historical, demographic, cultural, political and economic factors which have affected the development and course of Pakistan and relationships with its neighbors. It provides a broad treatment of some critical geographically-based issues, and helps explain why Pakistan, a strategically important and deeply troubled country, is a source of contemplation and concern today.