Contemporary Politics in the Middle East

by Beverley Milton-Edwards

The third edition of this dynamic book has been fully revised and updated to provide a comprehensive introduction to contemporary politics in the Middle East. Purposefully employing a clear thematic structure and including a wide range of case studies, data, visuals and further reading guidance the book explores and analyses the major issues which define the politics of this region of the globe. Milton-Edwards begins by introducing and explaining key concepts and debates and goes on to outline the impact of colonialism and its legacy, the rise of Arab nationalism and anti-colonial politics. She then examines major political issues affecting the region, such as American foreign policy, political Islam, war and conflict, political economy, democratization, ethnicity and the role of women. The book concludes by highlighting the politics of the region in the twenty-first century and the future challenges it faces. This is a perfect introduction for undergraduates, covering key political, economic and social debates and providing updates and guidance for further reading.

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics

320 pages, Paperback

First published April 14, 2000

Reviews

[Tolga Çevik · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a good introductory book on Middle Eastern politics. It may be especially beneficial if this is your first time reading about the region's politics. Of course, I am not an expert. I can't teach you about the complex nature of the region's political economy or the economic systems of each country. However, CAN WE PLEASE STOP LABELING A STATE AS COMMUNIST/SOCIALIST JUST BECAUSE THE STATE BARELY INTERVENES IN THE ECONOMY?

[social hotdog · Rating 4 out of 5]

arguably not so contemporary anymore, but still clear on histories of colonization/resistance mvts, ethnic identities, formation of nation-states, and goddamn dense. plow thru that shit.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read as a textbook for school. Interesting overview of current politics and the past influences that contributed. Some areas seem flawed and wishy washy however.

[Jeremy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good, solid starting point for study of the region. Milton-Edwards provides an overview of several of the major issues facing the modern Middle East (from the colonial period to the present) and details the issues (ethnicity, political Islam, colonialism, etc) with short case studies focusing on relevant topics (one later case study, for instance, goes into more depth on the nature of the relationship between the US and Israel). One of the nicer things about this particular book is the reading list that's found at the end of each chapter.