As I study, I am reminded of how essential it is to understand the contemporary Middle East and its development to grasp what is happening worldwide. The weekly readings and class discussions included ‘Islam in a Historical Perspective’, ‘Sates’, ‘Authoritarianism’ and ‘Dollar Monopoly in the Economy’. As we continue our journey, we are starting to...
Unravelling the Complexities of the Middle East
During the course, we have been able to unravel and demystify the complexities of the Middle East. Our exploration has taken us through topics such as the history of Islam and authoritarianism, which have contributed to a better understanding of how the region is perceived. We delved into the historical perspective of Islam and its...
Education: the antidote for ignorance
I summarise my studies: the interconnectedness of states, autocracy or authoritarianism, women’s rights and religion. For me, the biggest takeaway, or reiteration, has been the reminder that the Middle East is not a monolith. This sounds obvious, although, through the start of this course, I have begun to realise just how misguided or wrong some...
My Life Story… so Far
Hi, I’m Luke. I was born on December 23rd 2004 in Watford, and have lived in the nearby town of Hemel Hempstead my whole life. Like everyone, I do not have clear memories of my first few years. Still, I remember enjoying a caravan holiday in Ramsgate when I was 3, another caravan holiday in...
Energy, Economy, and Power in the Middle East
The concept of a rentier state is closely linked to oil-rich producing states in the Middle East. The theory attempts to explain how the oil and gas economies affect the nature of these states. In Arab oil states, it has been estimated that two to three per cent of the labour force is involved in...
Pita at the End of the Road – Six Months on From Thailand’s General Election
It’s been almost six months since Thailand’s General Election, and a new government has been established. Despite winning the most votes and seats, the Move Forward Party (MFP) has yet to be included in the new administration. Led by Pita Limjaroenrat, the MFP is known for advocating three key progressive policies: demilitarisation, demonopolization, and decentralisation....
Improve the world a better place for ourselves and future generations
Improve the world a better place for ourselves and future generations Our global community is united in the pursuit of a better world. We are determined to tackle the pressing issues of violence, racism, and climate change. We engage in constructive discussions, organize press conferences, and pass laws to promote climate preservation. However, we recognize...
My journey to the university
Hello, my name is Sebastian. Since childhood, I have been inquisitive about the relationships between the UK and other countries. I am passionate about giving back to my country and have applied for a degree in international relations to achieve that. My goal is to work with the government, particularly in the security sector, to...
Reflection on the Module Comprehension
A lucid understanding of global political, social and cultural issues is a crucial part of navigating the way of functioning of any society. It is vital to contemplate how the Democratic Engagement in the International Context Module would step by step, provide the students with various knowledge and skill sets indispensable for critically assessing and...
My Journey to the University
International relations is essential in shaping both our history and future, and politics enable us to try to do so without conflict. I want to develop my knowledge through my BA Politics and International Relations degree course, as I am passionate about this subject. Attending an international school in Dubai, I experienced a myriad of...
Significance of the Middle East in the World
The Politics and Development of the Middle East is an intriguing topic that has gained attention due to the rapidly evolving global affairs. This region is culturally diverse, rich in oil and gas resources, and strategically located. It has a blend of conservative Islam with advanced technologies and volatile unneighborly relations, making it increasingly important...
A Lost Psychologist
Psychology is a degree that elaborates upon how a diminutive experience or event in one’s life could ultimately have a life-changing impact on them. How could one be in the wrong place at the wrong time or the right place at the right time, and those chain of events could leave them with lifelong trauma or,...