Understanding Global Heritage is a new series of three textbooks published by Manchester University Press in association with The Open University. The books provide a sound introduction to, and detailed summary of, critical heritage studies as a global discipline. With a focus on both official and unofficial heritage objects, places and practices, the books feature a range of new international case studies which consider heritage at global, national and local levels.

Each book explores a key heritage theme, revealing the complex and often contested ways in which heritage is used as a political, cultural and economic resource. Core concepts include World Heritage, natural heritage, heritage and nationalism, Authorised Heritage Discourses and ‘difficult’ heritage. Through incisive analysis and a stimulating approach, the authors make clear that heritage, in all its forms – tangible and intangible, public and private, authentic and imagined – plays a crucial role in the modern world.

The books are written by an interdisciplinary team of scholars for students and professionals in the areas that inform heritage studies, including archaeology, architecture, art history, anthropology, sociology, geography, history, human geography, religious studies, museum studies, cultural studies, natural heritage management and tourism studies. Designed as freestanding texts, the books may be used individually or in combination.

SERIES EDITOR: RODNEY HARRISON

‘A comprehensive overview of current debates in heritage studies and heritage management’
Laurajane Smith, International Journal of Heritage Studies

‘Reveals how more inclusive views and strategies are challenging conventional notions’
John H. Jameson, Jr., Southeast Archeological Center, National Park Service, USA

‘A wide ranging selection of case studies – truly dispatches from the front’
Susan Pearce, University of Leicester, UK

'The twenty-three authors featured in this lively and informative trilogy bring a refreshing perspective on a range of heritage-related topics.'
Melanie Hall, Boston University, USA