Module description
There is more to Middle East politics than Islam. How have socio-economic factors affected the "Arab spring"? How does corruption impact economic development? Does oil wealth give Arab states a greater say in international affairs or is it simply a different form of economic dependence? What is the role of the state in Arab economies? The course seeks to answer these questions by critically examining conceptions of domestic and global governance and applying them to the Arab states. The aims of this module are to provide students with an understanding of the theories and practices of Middle Eastern political regimes and their approaches to economic development and allow them to appreciate and participate in the debates and discussions that constantly rage in this area.
After a brief historical introduction, we will look at the role of IMF, World Bank and WTO in the region, relations with Europe and the United States, and the uses and abuses of foreign aid. The effects of oil – both on domestic and international politics – will naturally play a big part in the course. We will then turn to examining institutions. Does economic development promote democracy? What causes high levels of corruption in MENA? The effects of the "Arab spring" will be a constant theme but we will also dedicate our final session to the topic.
Assessment details
'An appropriate assessment pattern will be set which may include but not limited to one or several of the following; Written coursework, group work, unseen timed examinations, participation etc'
Educational aims & objectives
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the theories and practices of Middle Eastern political regimes and their approaches to economic development and allow them to appreciate and participate in the debates and discussions that constantly rage in this area. It will
- provide a historical introduction to socio-economic factors affecting the Middle East;
- critically examine conceptions of domestic and global governance and how they apply to the Arab states;
- examine the role of the IMF, World Bank and WTO in the region, relations with Europe and the United States, and the uses and abuses of foreign aid;
- consider the effects of oil both on domestic and international politics
- consider the relationship between economic development and democracy
- examine the socio-economic factors behind the 'Arab Spring'
Learning outcomes
After taking this module students should have an understanding of the theories and practices of Middle Eastern political regimes and their approaches to economic development and be able to appreciate and participate in the debates and discussions that constantly rage in this area. They will be able to understand and critically assess:
- conceptions of domestic and global governance and how they apply to the Arab states;
- the role of the IMF, World Bank and WTO in the region, relations with Europe and the United States, and foreign aid;
- the effects of oil both on domestic and international politics;
- the relationship between economic development and democracy
- the socio-economic factors behind the 'Arab Spring'.