In social science terms, the `Arctic' is a relative, not an absolute concept, relating to several dimensions, such as constitutional and geographic status, remoteness, socioeconomic status, and demographic/anthropological factors. There is only one sovereign state with all its territory situated in the Arctic (Iceland), but many other areas of the globe have shared characteristics (Alaska, Yukon, Northwest Territories, areas of Norway, Sweden and Finland north of the Polar Circle, Greenland, the Faroes). Remoteness has to do with distance from the centre as well as accessibility, transportation and communication. Socioeconomically, the Arctic is characterised by a low population density, a fragile natural environment, and overwhelming economic dependence on one or a few resources, often coupled with income transfer. Demographically, the region has a large number of indigenous peoples, heavy immigration from the South (albeit only seasonal), minority problems, immigrant majorities, high infant mortality, low expected lifespan.
The present book is the first to present a large number of articles on the contemporary social, economic and political development in the Arctic, written by social scientists from Russia and the western world, many of whom live and conduct their research in the region. The book thus presents a much more complete picture of the modern world of the Arctic, offering a unique opportunity to compare what is happening in the different parts of the region.

Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Research Workshop, Novosibirsk, Russia, June 26-July 2, 1995

Zusammenfassung
Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Research Workshop, Novosibirsk, Russia, June 26-July 2, 1995

Inhalt
Preface. Introduction. Section 1. The Regulation of International Affairs in the Arctic. World Perspective. Section 2. Science and Technology Policy in the Arctic. Section 3. Government and Self-Government in the Arctic. The Structure of Organisation of Local Power. Section 4. Regional Aspects of Arctic Economic Development. Section 5. Market Economy in the North. Management and Organisation. Section 6. Natural Resources and Ecology: Management and Structure. Section 7. Human Resources in the Arctic. The Future of Native Peoples. Appendix. List of Authors. Subject Index.