Interactive Syllabus

ANNOTATION

The Middle East went through a very dynamic process of political and socio-economic development in last few decades. Political instability, frequent military conflicts, and a rapid economic growth combined with a substantial religious and ethnic diversity made this region a chessboard of the great powers. This course aims to explain the crucial historical milestones in a global perspective as well as to introduce the most important local issues that have had a significant impact in 20th and 21st century world politics. The concrete case studies of both the states and the non-state actors shall be used to demonstrate the various phenomena that have formed the whole region such as nationalism, religious radicalism, lack of democracy, totalitarian regimes etc.

Class meets online on MS Teams: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/team/19%3ab0d0b5ab9fcd4ed3b2c1db19838a9892%40thread.tacv2/conversations?groupId=c05d8366-4960-4f80-90d6-8a51da33eec2&tenantId=11904f23-f0db-4cdc-96f7-390bd55fcee8

ASSESMENT METHOD

The students should be able to analyze and understand these issues in a complex way. In order to get this knowledge it is essential to study the literature and come prepared to the class. The attendance is not mandatory however the students are highly encouraged to attend the lectures.

Grades

A                     92 - 100

B                     84 - 91

C                     76 - 83

D                     68 - 75

E                     60 - 67

F                     less than 60 points

Midterm exam

Consists of open questions requiring short answer. Goal is to check whether students have acquired basic factual knowledge in the first part of the course. Literature and lecture content will both be included.

Points: 40 points

Date: November 19, 2020

Final exam

Final exam will consist of six open questions which will require longer answers. Students will be asked to prove that they have acquired knowledge about the topics covered throughout the course and can critically discuss the dynamics in the region.

Points: 60 points

Date: January 2020