Comparative Politics of the Middle East

Survey of the political development of the Arab states, Israel, Turkey, and Iran since the fall of the Ottoman Empire in World War I. Focus on the various factors that have helped shape the emergence of political institutions in those countries: history, economics, culture, religion, and foreign intervention. Prospects for future change (socioeconomic development, political liberalization, war and peace) in the Middle East. Recommendations: Sophomore standing or permission of instructor.