This course focuses on a critical understanding of the politics of the contemporary Middle East. The course takes a historical and ethnographic approach to understanding political cultures in the Middle East, interpreting the role of Islam, secularism, and globalization. It evaluates the impact of war, occupation, ethnic conflicts, and military-industrial complexes on the region. Students especially deepen their knowledge of geopolitical shifts in Iran, Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, and Turkey to build a comprehensive critical understanding of conflicts such as Israeli/Palestinian, Houthis/Saudis, and Kurdish/ISIS.
- Instructor: Mazyar Lotfalian