POLS 227 - Middle East Politics & Society

5 CR

Same as INTST 227.
Entails an understanding of Islam as a fundamental socio-economic and political force, the European power politics of early centuries, U.S. involvement in the region, comparative analysis of governments, political cultures, economic development, regional conflict and terrorism. Either POLS 227 or INTST 227 may be taken for credit, not both.

Course Outcomes

Identify the causes and assess the consequences of major economic, social, political, and cultural developments in the Middle East
Articulate the geopolitical importance of the Middle East in relation to foreign powers and assess the role of Western colonial powers in shaping the modern Middle East
Compare and contrast diverse viewpoints and articulate well-reasoned arguments regarding contemporary political, economic and social issues in the Middle East
Use the comparative method as an analytical tool to better understand similarities and differences among countries and cultures in the Middle East
Explain the foundation of Islam and its impact on the political, social, and economic development of the modern Middle East
Explain the roots of extremism in the Middle East and its impact on political, economic, and social development

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