Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - IS 315 D100

Introduction to Middle East Politics (4)

Class Number: 4210

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 6, 2025
    Sat, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the political, economic, and ideological dynamics of contemporary Middle Eastern states. Examines the legacy of colonialism, state formation, central ideological trends such as Arab nationalism and political Islam, the dynamics of state-society contention, and the challenges of economic development.

COURSE DETAILS:

Discover the complex and vibrant realities of the Middle East beyond the headlines. This course challenges the misrepresentations of the region by providing alternative, grounded knowledge and critical analysis of its history, social dynamics, and political economies. By adopting a comparative approach, this course will historicize and contextualize current events, offering a deeper understanding of contemporary issues. Unpack the decisions of governmental elites and state policies while also immersing yourself deep into the everyday lives and struggles of ordinary people. Engage with diverse perspectives and compelling case studies offering a nuanced understanding of the Middle East's politics and its interconnectedness with broader geopolitical trends.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After completing this course, students will have developed:

  • a foundational understanding of key concepts in Middle East studies
  • a critical assessment of some of the key social, economic, and political challenges that shape the lives of people in the MENA region
  • the capability to critically analyze media and scholarly discussions of the politics of the Middle East to discover their core arguments and underlying assumptions
  • the ability to articulate core themes and arguments of the course in the form of written work or oral presentation

Grading

  • Final mark in the class will be based on the following: Class attendance and participation, Take-home essays, Presentations, and a Final exam 100%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All required readings will be uploaded to Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.