POLS 325 Middle East Politics
The Middle East exists as a truly tense and important region in world politics. The tension and importance of this region is created by a number of political, economic, religious, and historical influences that increase its complexity. This course attempts to come to grips with some of these realities such as: the legacy of imperialism; the influence of the Cold War and its conclusion; the underlying religious realities of the region; the resource conflicts that exist in the area; as well as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The class will blend international relations scholarship with comparative politics to understand the sources of conflict in the region and map potential solutions. The course will also delve deeply into American foreign policy in the area. The United States is uniquely positioned to act in the region as a result of its self-interest and international political power. However, with policy action comes possible side effects and repercussions.
Distribution
Social Analysis