Modern and Contemporary
Afghanistan: A Cross-Cultural
Perspective of a Shatter Zone
Geologists and political geographers apply the term shatter belt, shatter zone or shatter belt zone to particular regions. The geopolitical term “shatter zone” describes Afghanistan. In geology, the term refers to a region of difficult terrain and mountain ranges created by the collision of tectonic plates. In political geography (geopolitical theory) the term refers to an area where there is internal, geographical, cultural, religious and political fragmentation.
Shatter zones are regions where civilizations, empires and modern nation states compete militarily and economically to gain control or to establish a sphere of influence. These two combined definitions describe Afghanistan geographically and geopolitically.
Past
The history of pre-modern Afghanistan includes numerous civilizations and empires.
Present
Modern Afghanistan has shifted from a Monarchy to a Republic to an Islamic Emirate to a Democracy and now back to rule under the Taliban.
Future
Afghanistan’s future remains uncertain, as the Taliban have yet to establish a permanent government and the nations of the world withhold their recognition.
Memories, Articles, Resources and Discussion
Afghan Luce Ends serves as a reservoir for resources, articles and discussions related to Afghanistan and Afghans.
