Moghadam (sociology, international affairs, Northeastern University) studies the nature of social change in the region, the impact of that change on women's legal status and social positions, and women's responses to and involvement in changes processes; she also deals with constructions of gender during periods of social and political change. An overview chapter offers a historical context for nationalism and women, revolutions and women's rights, and Islamist movements and family law. Later chapters examine globalization and women's economic citizenship, patriarchy in crisis, and gender and war in Palestine, Afghanistan, and Iraq. One chapter is devoted to gender and the Islamic state in Iran. Reflecting the many recent changes in the region, this third edition includes new chapters on the Arab Spring and women's rights activism, and new emphasis on the impacts of globalization and democracy. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)