Political Science 344
I. Course Title: Middle East Politics (CG)
II. Course Number: POSC 344
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: None
V. Course Description:
This course offers a detailed examination of the forces that have shaped Middle East politics, including religion, nationalism, and modernization. It will involve the study of the domestic and foreign policies of selected countries.
Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
The course will cover both the domestic politics and foreign policies of countries in the Middle East as well as the impacts of transnational forces, such as religion, nationalism, and modernization.
VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
The course will look at empire and aftermath, the building of modern states, single party regimes, monarchy, and Arab socialism as well as attempts at democracy (with a focus on the Arab Spring). It will examine the foreign policies of a selection of countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Israel, and Turkey.
VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
- Students describe behaviors, beliefs, cultures, social institutions, and/or environments.
- Students analyze the interactions of behaviors, beliefs, cultures, social institutions, and/or environments.
- Students identify challenges associated with building modern states and functioning democratic political institutions.
- Students critically evaluate information resources on events and issues relating to the region.
VIII. Assessment Measures:
Students may be evaluated based on class participation, simulated negotiations, presentations, tests, and research papers.
Other Course Information: None
Review and Approval
April 15, 2016
March 01, 2021