New Arabic Edition of 1958 Doctoral Thesis on Golan Geography Released

The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies has released a new Arabic edition of "The Golan: A Study in Regional Geography," authored by Adeeb Suleiman Bag. Originally Bag's 1958 Sorbonne doctoral dissertation, the book is considered a significant academic reference on the natural, human, demographic, ethnological, and economic geography of the Golan region. The 496-page volume includes an overview of the author's life, a preface to the second edition, an introduction, fifteen chapters divided into three sections, geological and natural maps, and a general index.

The first section examines the Golan's natural environment, including its geographical and climatic characteristics and ecological diversity. The second section delves into the Arab human geography of the Golan from ancient times, covering its historical, demographic, ethnological, and religious dimensions. The third section focuses on rural activities and production patterns, linking them to the conditions of the inhabitants and their natural and social environments.

The book's originality lies in its analysis of the region's complex natural and human factors, situated between Mount Hermon and the semi-arid Hauran plains. It explores the interplay of agriculture and nomadic lifestyles, diverse origins of the population, and patterns of settlement and movement. The study emphasizes social and economic factors, particularly land ownership and utilization, and their impact on production, markets, and labor systems.

The author's geographical approach moves beyond description to interpret the relationships between humans and their environment, identifying factors influencing economic and social life. The work aims to contribute to understanding how to improve living standards and integrate the region into the national economy, highlighting geography's role in analyzing rapid transformations and linking scientific research to human welfare and future foresight.

The book was first translated into Arabic by professors from Damascus University in 1983. This new edition, reissued by the Arab Center due to its scientific and national importance, was reviewed and enhanced with an introductory preface and historical maps by Mohammed Harb Farzat, one of the original translators and a professor of ancient history.