Social Mobilization and Conflict in the Middle East (NS 4300)

How do Islamists mobilize? Who are the members, and how are they recruited? When do movements turn toward or against violence? In this course we will examine the trajectory of Islamist movements, their mobilizing tactics, what circumstances give rise to movements, and the difference between national and international movements, among other topics. We will study various prominent Islamist movements in depth, particularly their interactions with state authorities.

In this course we will analyze protest and mobilization in the Middle East from the perspective of what is possible there. We will try to understand the roots of protest actions, the grievances and demands of the populace, why protest takes the particular form it does, and how those forms differ depending on resources, opportunities, etc. What are the real underlying issues? How do the available alternatives structure the shape protest takes? How do repression or democracy affect Islamist actions?