Political
Science 247 Instructor:
Jamal Nassar
Fall 1996 Office:
125 Schroeder
Phone: 438-2493
Office Hours: MWF 10-11; 2-3
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[Introduction] [Objectives] [Readings] [Requirements] [Plagiarism] [Attendance]
The Middle East region has been significant throughout history. It is said to be the cradle of civilization. Its historical significance, however, related more to its location than to its civilization role. The region stands at the intersection of three continents. Today, the region is important because of what it has: oil. Location and resources have contributed to a long history of invasions, wars, and conquest. The consequences of that long history and of its oil wealth remain at the heart of the region's conflicts with the West. Middle Easterners' longing for freedom has been hampered by the West's need for trade routes and oil. In the process, conflict set in and stereotypes came to dominate the Western view of the area and its peoples. This course attempts to replace stereotype with knowledge.
The course attempts to achieve the following objectives:
 | To provide the student with a comprehensive knowledge of the Middle East area in general. |
| To offer brief background information on the area, i.e., population, religion, forms of governments, etc. Such coverage is complimented by a brief survey of major historical developments since World War II and their impact on current issues. |
| To present the various influences producing unifying and stabilizing effects on the area or causing dislocations - discords, and internal tensions. |
| To study the role of the Middle East in the international community, especially the involvement of the major powers in the area. |
There will be two exams during the semester and a final exam. The exams will combine long and short essay questions. Each exam will count for 100 points of your course and 60 points are designated for your term paper. The paper must deal with an issue in internal or external politics of the Middle East. A list of topics will be suggested in class. Some possible sources for your paper will be suggested to you, and you will be guided in finding other sources on your own. The paper should be fifteen typewritten double-spaced pages. Term papers should include a bibliography and a page or so of footnotes. The format and style of the paper should follow appropriate methods. The paper is due on Friday November 8, 1996. You will be judged on your ability to present, analyze, and evaluate the subject of your research.
The sum of all points for the semester is 360. To receive an "A" you need to have a 90% of those, a "B" 80% and so on. No extra credit work will be accepted in this course. Make-up exams and late work are only allowed when evidence of a legitimate excuse are accepted by the instructor.
Plagiarism will not be tolerated on either exams or on the term paper. Should a student be caught plagiarizing, he/she would receive and immediate "F" for the course.
Attendance is required as a matter of routine. Students missing classes must have documented proof for their absence. Participation in class discussions is encouraged as an essential element of better understanding and intellectual discourse.
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