This book is an invaluable resource for students of the Middle East. It is a highly accessible, but nuanced text that rightly eschews simplistic explanations of an increasingly complex region. The authors’ decision to undertake a thematic analysis of events and currents across the last 150 years makes the book one of the best of the genre, and ensures that students of all levels will be well served.

Dara Conduit, Lecturer in Political Science, University of Melbourne, Australia

To analyse in depth and nuance the comparative politics of the Middle East in less than 300 pages and to offer such a sum to both the academic community and general public is a real tour de force. Two of the most brilliant representatives of Middle East Studies combine their efforts to synthesize numerous years of burning events, passionate debates and innovative leads. A stellar contribution.

Mohamed-Ali Adraoui, Assistant Professor in Middle East History, Politics and International Relations, Radboud University, the Netherlands

This book provides an excellent overview of the historical, religious, social, political and economic context framing the persistence of authoritarianism in the modern Middle East. It analyses the domestic and international forces at play, and what impact this may have on political and security institutions, state society relations and gender relations. Accessible and engaging, Cavatorta and Durac’s book serves as a comprehensive guide for any student of Middle East politics.

Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor of Government, University of Essex, UK