Through lucid, carefully organized exposition, this text makes the study of active tectonics (earthquakes in the present and recent past) easily understandable. Extremely current throughout, this text thoroughly explores the effects of earthquakes and active tectonic systems on humans, geomorphic systems, and Earth's topography. The text is complete with numerous case studies in a variety of regions, the very latest advances in the field, separate quantitative techniques boxed sections, and a host of pedagogical aids.