INTS 244-01, An Introduction to Selected Nationalisms and Islamist Ideologies of the Middle East, Fall 2009

Abstract

This is an introductory course on selected ideologies of the Middle East; it presupposes only basic knowledge of the region as well as previous exposure to comparative politics. The course surveys the historical and political trajectories of selected nationalisms and Islamist ideologies in the Middle East: Pan-Arabism, various Arab territorial nationalisms, Zionisms, Turkish nationalisms, Kurdish nationalisms and various strains of Islamism. This course provides students with basic background knowledge, analytical tools, and familiarity with key issues necessary to better understand today’s Middle East and some of the current ideologies prevalent there. Course exams and written assignments are designed to encourage students to arrive at their own analyses and conclusions regarding key issues in the region. Core texts provides a structured basis for the course, with class lectures and additional readings designed to further elucidate material not covered in the required books.