GOVT142C CM - Democratic Transitions in the Middle East and Beyond

This course analyzes dynamics of authoritarianism and democratization in the Middle East and beyond. The course will be divided into three sections: the first covers the main theoretical perspectives explaining the persistence of authoritarian rule in the Middle East and other regions of the world (i.e. the cultural approach centered on value systems and religion; the structural approach centered on oil and other natural resources; and the institutional approach centered on civil-military relations and coercive agencies). The second section will ponder the theory and practice of non-violent challenges to authoritarian regimes. And the third section will study processes of authoritarian breakdown and consolidation during the 2011 Arab uprisings and their aftermath.

Prerequisites: GOVT 020 CM or instructor permission.

Offered: Every year

Credit: 1

Course Number: GOVT142C CM