Analyzes the historical erosion of communal water rights. Examining the international water trade, damming, mining, and aquafarming, Shiva exposes the destruction of the earth and the disenfranchisement of the world's poor as they are stripped of their right to a precious common good. Reveals that many of the important conflicts of our time are rooted in conflict over scarce but vital natural resources. Celebrates the spiritual and traditional role water has played in communities throughout history.