Political science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Political science - Essay ExampleAs Hoffman and William say. A but reason why the Middle East is becoming more important is eminent oil prices. Although oil prices are far below their 2008 peak of US$147/bbl, they are expected to remain high due to rising demand from China, India, and other emerging markets. Despite efforts by international oil companies to tap into newly sources, such as the Caspian Sea, West Africa, and Brazils offshore deposits, and despite moves to develop alternative energy sources, oil is likely to remain paramount. Meanwhile, the windfall of high oil prices should stretch out to boost investment in the Middle East, making it an important economic region.Apart from Israel, Lebanon and Turkey, no Middle Eastern state has an unaccompanied democratic political system. Iran has competitive elections, but ultimate power rests with the ruling clerics. The other countries are all absolute monarchies or led by tyrannic presidents, although there are varying degre es of parliamentary representation. As a result, most leaders have questionable legitimacy.Opposition groups tend to be suppressed, and governments maintain almighty security services to keep their populations in line. This system of government has fostered patronage and corruption, in turn adding to public dissatisfaction. Arguably, the biggest question for the Middle East is whether it can continue to be an exception to the spread of democracy worldwide or whether democracy will eventually take hold.As per Wunderle openion. Over the coming decade, we expect several(prenominal) Middle Eastern states notably Egypt and Saudi Arabia to face succession issues, as incumbent heads of state pass from the scene. In Egypt, the outlook is highly uncertain, amid signs that President Hosni Mubarak is stuffing his son Gamal to succeed him and opposition to this. In Saudi Arabia, the succession procedure is clearer cut, but a power