POL 539A Comparative Politics of the Middle East
Comparative Politics of the Middle East looks at the modern development of various political trends in the Middle East region through a focus on analysis of relevant themes and various case studies. Some of the major concepts that will be explored in this course include the introduction of the modern nation-state system into the region, Arab and state nationalism movements, the political economy of natural resources, growth in political Islam, theories of global religious terrorism, and influence of US foreign policy in the region. The class will also look at various cases of state development including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Israel and Palestine, Lebanon, and Algeria. Student requirements will include short papers, presentations on reading materials and class topics, and a final paper coordinated in conjunction with the instructor.