The Economist Pocket World in Figures 2012
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In the internet age, it's tempting to take the view that the answer to any question — however obscure — is a matter of clicks away. But, given the ubiquity of sources available and the unreliability of some of the websites publishing information online, it is reassuring to have the imprimatur of a trusted brand. That is what is so attractive about The Economist's handy annual guide, the Pocket World in Figures. That, and the diversity of the detail on offer.
Apart from figures such as the population, GDP and inflation rates of more than 190 countries, it offers a treasure trove of other fascinating info: the proportion of Qatari women who are obese (45 per cent), which country has the world's highest marriage rate (the innapropriately named US Virgin Islands) and the nation that hosts three of the world's five most 'liveable' cities (Canada).
At a a time when the economic balance of power between East and West is changing fast, there is also a league table of growth rates, with Equatorial Guinea in first place on 19.1 per cent.
The 2012 edition has been comprehensively updated, with new rankings on such topics as Facebook, charitable behaviour, parliamentary seats and a happy planet index.
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