Dialogues in Arab Politics: Negotiations in Regional Order

Michael N. Barnett

"Contrary to most analysts, who rely on classic balance-of-power explanations for Middle East international outcomes, Barnett argues that inter-Arab politics can best be understood as a constantly evolving conflict to define what Arabism means and how those meanings inform definitions of self-interest. No one interested in the international relations of the region can afford to ignore this book." — Gregory Gause, University of Vermont

"This book offers a very different view from standard accounts of how to think about Arab politics and, by extension, how to think about international relations generally. Barnett argues that the international relations of the Middle East were not formed by the interests that each country and leader brought to the table. Rather, they developed out of conversations these leaders held over several decades and the symbols that arose out of these conversations. Dialogues in Arab Politics opens a new window into the dynamics of the international relations of the Middle East and gives us new insights into thinking about other forms of international relations as well." — Joel S. Migdal, University of Washington

Related Subjects

• International Affairs

About the Author

Michael N. Barnett is professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.

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