SECOND PAPER ASSIGNMENT

The intent of this paper is to have you focus on identifying and explaining a set of general causes of (or explanations for) conflict in one of the regions we have studied in the last few weeks. We have already examined the different models we can use to interpret the policy decisions (and intent) of other countries, whether we are analyzing our own country from the ‘outside’ or attempting to understand the purpose or intent of an adversary’s actions within the context of a particular conflict. In this paper, I would like you to look at the cultural, historical, economic, geopolitical context (or environment) in which nation-states exist. It is to be assumed that these factors may be different from region to region and from one historical period to another. Therefore, I would like you to choose one of the three regions we have studied: Eastern Europe & Russia/Soviet Union, the Middle East, Less Developed Countries (here you may want to focus on Africa or Latin America, or you may want to generalize more widely).^* In your paper, you should attempt to identify one or two contextual/environmental factors (causes) to focus on, and trace them historically and currently. You may want to orient your paper to the following questions: What is likely to be the cause (or set of causes) for the next war in your region? What are the origins of this cause, and how has it influenced politics in your region in the past?

In order to write this paper, I will expect that you will use the materials assigned or presented in the class so far. Thus, you should read and understand thoroughly both the chapter(s) in the text that pertain to your area of focus, and the films we have viewed in class. You may want to do additional research in the library on your area of interest, or on a particular country or set of countries in your region. I will place all the films we have viewed on reserve in the library, so that you can view them in the AV area. You will be expected to cite thoroughly all your sources for the paper.

Finally, you may want to work the following concepts (where appropriate) into your discussion: three levels of analysis, the various means each country has to intervene in others’ affairs (ladder handout from class), Huntington’s "clash of civilizations."

The paper should be 6-8 pages in length and will be due on March 29^th (during the second week following spring break). I am, as always, available for consultation or advice.

ABC News (1990). The Fall of Communism.

ABC News (1990). A Line in the Sand. (Gulf War causes & buildup)

ABC News (1991). A Line in the Sand: War or Peace? (The eve of the actual war)