FRS 002 — Sec. 011 — (2 units) — CRN 92622 — T 10:00-11:50am — 25 Wellman
Dynamics of Development and Change in the Middle East: Only by Revolution

Instructor: Elias Tuma, Department of Economics, College of Letters and Science

Description: The course will introduce students to various aspects of the Middle East society, with special focus on the politics and economics of the region and the problems of using their resources effectively and efficiently to get out of their underdevelopment. A revolution in thought, doctrine, or philosophy will be proposed as the best way to achieve development and change in a reasonable time period. The main objectives of the course are to familiarize students with the resources of the various countries, the potential for development and change, and with various ways to achieve the objectives. A textbook, UNDERSTANDING THE MIDDLE EAST, 2nd edition, 2003, will provide background material, to be supplemented by my weekly notes for discussion. Other readings may be recommended in due time.

Format: Each class session will begin with a discussion of current affairs, for about 15 minutes, to encourage students to pay attention to events in the news. A discussion of the assigned topic will follow. Students will be expected to participate in the discussions; the lecture approach will be avoided to the extent possible. In addition to participation in the discussion, students will be expected to write a term paper, (10 pages), on a topic approved by the instructor, and give a 10-minute presentation of the topic of the paper. Grading: The grade will be divided as follows: 15% for attendance and participation in the discussion, 15% for the presentation, and 70% for the term paper. Papers are due on last day of class.

About the Instructor: I am a Professor Emeritus of Economics, have taught and published extensively on the Middle East, and continue to publish a monthly commentary, mainly on the political economy of the region, with special emphasis on the Arab-Israeli conflict. I have conducted several freshman seminars in the past, as well as 190 courses for upper division, which were conducted as seminars.