MESA 201
Why do Muslims believe that oral recitation of the Qur'an is as important as a written text?
Qur'an means recitations, not readings. I'jaz - the inimitability of the Qur'an. It is out of Islamic tradition, as the Qur'an was originally given orally and was not written down entirely until after the prophet's death. There are distinctive characteristics and rules to Qur'anic pronunciation of every word (part of tajwid - literally improvement and perfection). Thust the sound of the Qur'an cannot be translated. The sound carries with it divine meaning and is held as self-evident proof of Muhammad's prophethood because of its beauty in Qur'anic Arabic. The sound of the Qur'an is believed to be the sound of the divine.
How does the game of football show signs of unraveling the Turkish myth that their country has no racism?
"The 'there is no racism' myth in contemporary Turkey ignores the roots of how race came to be 'invented' and then operationalized in Turkey." Everyone in Turkey is considered a Turk officially. "As is the case in most countries, Turkey's relationship with race and difference is complicated." "Sports often provide the first sighting of phenomena marking social change." "Football is the primary sport in Turkey in terms of players, viewers, and media focus." "[F]ootball occupies a big part of daily life. Thus, any actions connected with football which highlight racial or ethnic divisions recieve national attention and demand explanation, since racism officially does not exist." Emre makes racial slurs against Zokora, in later comments these slurs are altered to simple profanity. Antagonisms against Diyarbakir by Bursa is attributed to profanity, not racism. "[T]he media took the opportunity to cast this entire clash as emanating from Diyarbakir, and therefore as being the work of the Kurdish partisans." The Turkish Football Federation classifies these antagonisms and slurs as profanity, trying to cover up what the rest of the world recognizes as racism.
How did music and humor become an important part of the Syrian strategy of survival during the early years of the civil war? Why are these diversions particularly important?
"The worst disaster is what makes you laugh." The use of dark humor, sarcasm, and jokes to humorize internet images and cartoons of heavily hit Syrian communities was a response to Syrian oppression. Without a central location for the revolution like in Egypt, localized music became a kind of anti-regime protest or outlet. Many musicians were kept quiet by the regime, but can now make their music, and do so in protest. Famous protest songs like the one by Ibrahim Qashoush became popular at protests in Hamah. Most of the impact music has had has been online by becoming national chants or providing religious solace. The use of music and humor are important diversions because they become weapons of resistance and they have the ability to satirize and delegitimize the regime.
How will you decide if a graduate degree is worth your time and money?
A graduate degree should lead to something - a means, not an ends; should want what it leads to. Pros: Opportunity for career changes, greater earning potential, potential teaching opportunities, research capabilities, prestige. Cons: the eternal student, more expensive in time and money, highly competitive, no guarantee of employment, opportunity costs of not entering job market. To become what I envision being: Is it what I want? Is it what I need?
What is terrorism? What is religious terrorism? What does Stern mean when she talks about the encounter with evil? In what ways can terrorism be considered evil?
Any act of violence or malice designed to intimidate an audience, usually other than the immediate victim(s) of the act toward a religiously, socially, or politically oriented end, as practiced by non-state actors. This is a working definition for commonplace terrorism as encountered in mainstream media today. This definition deliberately omits state-terrorism and acts of war. Religious terrorism is included in the above definition. No one religion is more violent than another (not true, but for this class it is). The encounter with evil refers to the fact that terrorism fits multiple definitions of evil. Evil is mostly termed in its Enlightenment terms where it connotes human pain and suffering. The encounter with evil is what Stern witnesses when she converses with religious terrorists who have turned something that should be good into a device that permits slaughter. Terrorism can be considered: moral evil that involves intentionally causing harm and suffering; metaphysical evil where the universe increases the chance of misfortune; banal evil, which Stern says is the unthinking obedience to wrong or immoral rules, shutting off from other people as human beings, and an 'ends justify the means' approach to violence; trauma induced evil, which Stern says is the loss of empathy where suffering leads to sin and a person cannot conceptualize the pain another person endures.
What is Orientalism as defined by Edward Said? How can it be considered harmful to understanding the Middle East?
Anyone that studies or researches 'the orient', what they say about it is Orientalism. It can be either a style of thought that stresses differences between the West (us) and the Orient (them) and/or a study structure designed to facilitate interaction and conquest of the Orient, as an agent of colonialism. It is harmful because it prevents truth from being known, is discriminatory against 'them,' and generates poor foreign policy. Also created misunderstandings between the West and Orient that still trouble relations. Edward Said: "The Orient, in short, existed as a set of values attached, not to its modern realities, but to a series of valorized contacts it had had with a distant European past."
What does Bayat have to say about Middle Eastern 'exceptionalism'? Why does he take that stance? What does this mean that you as a student of the Middle East must do when analyzing this region? Does it make your work more or less difficult?
Bayat says that the Middle East is not an exception, but that its exceptionalism would be its inability to change and adapt - it unchangeableness - if there were such a thing. Bayat points out that change happens at a personal level rather than a public one; change happens on the streets, in conversations, and other things. We cannot just use parallels to Western things to analyze this. Personal changes are not comparable to changes across a region. To analyze the region, sometimes you have to let go of typical indicators and research on a more personal level. We're used to seeing revolutions and major policy changes as indications of change, yet this may be the wrong view for understanding the Middle East. Look at public spaces and how they're used - where do revolutions happen and why there? The poor infringing on public space, women taking over mundane but important aspects of life reserved for men, etc., are examples of politics of practice rather than protest. It will certainly add difficulty to our work at first. Our approach must be retooled and with practice and experience it will become natural.
Relate Huntington's "The Clash of Civilization" discourse to question 47. Does "Clash of Civilizations" serve to support or counter (construct or deconstruct) attitudes that give individuals reasons to agree with the war on jihad website? Could "Clash of Civilizations" be considered a 'grand narrative' or 'metanarrative' explaining the world today? How?
Clash of Civilizations is about the Cultures of different civilizations and used Islam predominately because it offered the best examples to illustrate Huntington's points. Its borders are bloody, but so is its interior. CofC argues that the West and Islam are both growing, so they're doomed to clash a lot. Support of war-on-jihad: generalizations from CofC emphasize that all of this civilization embraces the same mentality (and that they view the West uniformly as well) - generating a clear Us/Them divide; implies the conflict is inevitable and we should just get it over with while we can still win; civilizations are incompatible; if one is not growing, it is shrinking/dying. Opposition to war-on-jihad: CofC is concerned with culture of Islam while W-o-J hates the religion - CofC distinguishes the two; CofC admits that there will be exceptions to the generalizations while WoJ does not; CofC is meant to be a framework for understanding, not a justification of particular actions. Metanarrative: a narrative about narratives of historical meanings, experiences, knowledge, that seeks to offer an explanation (often twisted to legitimize state actions to complete master ideas). CofC is a metanarrative in that it seeks to give an all encompassing explanation for the way things are or will be. The belief that cultural and religious identities will be the key divide between civilizations is the metanarrative, while individual conflicts like jihad and crusades, are narratives. History is summed up by grouping realms into civilizations, which generally accounts for the behaviors of states fighting each other.
What is Confirmation bias? Discuss how confirmation bias could reinforce erroneous interpretations of data about events in the Middle East. Give an example of how this phenomena distorted US foreign policy.
Confirmation bias is analyzing information in a way that is not objective, but is simply searching for justification for preexisting conceptions - looking to confirm something already believed. Sometimes referred to as 'Myside bias.' This can lead to hasty generalizations or incorrect conclusions about events in the Middle East. If a lens like Orientalism or Colonialism is already espoused by the person, and event will be construed to fit that person's paradigm and reinforce their beliefs rather than potentially challenge them. "Ahmadinejad gloated publicly over the death of Israelis in a terror bombing in Bulgaria, and hinted Iran responsible" Translation error probably influenced by CB through unreflectively narrowing the meaning of vague words and accepting evidence uncritically. Bad info also confirmed Bush Admin's suspicions and encouraged Iraq war.
What is counterinsurgency? Why was the Pentagon willing to consider use of counterinsurgency? Why is this difficult and expensive to implement?
Counterinsurgency is combating insurgents, or armed rebellions against declared or constituted authorities. The Pentagon considered using counterinsurgency because it allows for a more holistic approach to the problem than anti-terrorism (which is an ideological tactic, and too nebulous to feasibly combat). Insurgency accounts for an organized, deliberate enemy rebelling against specific authorities and grievances, which opens economic, political, and social tools up to fight against it. It is expensive to implement because it typically requires very particular approaches which prove a logistical nightmare. Counterinsurgents focus on decentralizing and dispersing insurgencies, which requires specific and precise understanding of each individual insurgency, and following up on promises for all allies in order to not create new insurgencies.
Compare and contrast various definitions of terrorism and discuss why the UN has not been able to agree on one definition.
DOD: "The unlawful use of violence or threat of violence to instill fear and coerce governments or societies. Terrorism is often motivated by religious, political, or other ideological beliefs and committed in the pursuit of goals that are usually political." FBI: "The unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government or the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives." Jessica Stern: "An act or a threat of violence against noncombatants with the objective of exacting revenge, intimidating, or otherwise influencing an audience." Diffs: the inclusion or definition of 'noncombatants,' agenda of terrorists, and who can conduct terrorism. Diff because every government entity wants to be included as potential victims, but excluded as perpetrators.
What does a choice of which automobile to purchase reveal about an individual? What does it say about images? Discuss what automobiles mean to both males and females in Qatar.
Daniel Miller: cars play an intricate and essential role in the expression of the collective ethos we human beings share. More than vehicles for humans but vehicles for humanity (extensions of who we are). Cars are an extension or embodiment of our humanity and identity. Your car indicates your status or class: wealth - Mercedes, Audi, BMW, LandRover, Porsche; middle class - toyota, hyundai, honda, ford. Also reveals lifestyle: big truck = manual labor; van = family; sports car = leisure; rover = adventure. Qataris differentiate origins of a person by car: Khawal (descendants of slaves) white crusier with low frame and yellow rims; Al-Marri (powerful Bedouin tribe) - red color with stylings; "No Qatari will drive a Corolla...He'll buy a cruiser." Color is not definite, but black is a female color while white is male. Sedans and quasi-SUV's are for women, so are the Mercedes C-class, BMW X3, and Nissan Murano, because they are best for urban settings, not the dunes. Male cars are fast, powerful, rugged, and versatile along with good looking. They are extensions of Qatari gender roles in color and capability. These standards are general - many step outside these boundaries to assert individuality through cars.
Discuss the importance of marriage for women in Iran. Discuss why Iranian women are not so interested in getting married at this point in time.
Families in Iran try to marry daughters off quickly, before their perceived 'expiration date.' Marriage is an honorable status, religiously encouraged, socially reinforced, and emotionally appealing to Iranian women who have been raised with marriage in mind (themselves and their parents). It is of great traditional, social, and religious importance. During the economic downfall and crisis in Iran, many men lost jobs, prospects, and wealth. This made them incapable of affording the extravagant wedding ceremonies and providing for a family making them less desirable. Additionally, Iranian women have emphasized education and careers, to which marriage and childbearing is a threat.
What different types of identity formation/construction are especially important within the Middle East? Why is each important to account for?
Family name/ancestry: The tribe is the basic unit of Middle Eastern society. Fealty to family is paramount in most of the Middle East. Defend your brother, even if he is wrong. Also a source of pride and esteem if of good ancestry. Ethnicity: In the history of the Middle East, people have conquered and been conquered, and historical grievances are frequently remembered and expressed along ethnic lines. Religion: Piety can render status. The idea of the Muslim community or ummah provides solidarity to peoples of the same faith. This concept exists in all religions who can classify us/them along religious lines. Ideologies are also expressed through religious observance. Islamic extremists draw more from Wahhabi and Salafist groups than from others. Language: Linguistic differences are a hallmark of identity. Solidarity exists between peoples that understand each other, and language barriers literally breakdown understanding between others. Also implies heritage and closely linked with ethnicity and religion in some cases (Copts, Jews). Location: Where a person is from. Nationalist influences based on geographical distinctions. The difference between many Syrians and many Iraqis is simply what side of the Sykes-Picot line they're on. Environmental determinism? Riverside Egypt is more moderate because life is not as harsh there as it is in sandy, hot Saudi Arabia where strict Wahhabism rules. Socio-economic/occupational: The younger generation invests much in wealth and occupation as a symbol of status. Works to replace familiar and ethnic identities, especially in marriage and social circles. Education closely linked.
Could you make a case that the film, 'Lawrence of Arabia' is a story of British superiority? Would you argue that the British are the heroes of the film? Why or why not?
For Brit Superiority: Arabs frequently loot, kill, and are greedy. They are used by either Turks or Brits as pawns in the geopolitical power play. They heartlessly abandon the weak or careless (orphans, man lost in desert). They are unable to overcome their pettiness and form a functioning parliament. Against Brit Superiority: Ali steadily becomes the moral heart of the film, practically the hero. Western and Turkish leaders are manipulative, dishonest, and impotent, while their troops and their behavior is disrespectful, lazy, and unchangeable. The British are not the heroes of the film, and neither is Lawrence. Ali is the embodiment of the Arab converted from stereotypes to nobility, via his encounters with Lawrence. Ali is the hero. Edward Said claims that Lawrence was the first to propound the now prevalent idea of Arab 'primitive simplicity' and that the film underlines his 'unmistakably imperialistsic' vision that 'serious rule was never meant for such lesser species, only for the white man.' But these statements are proven to be false by Lawrence himself. Urges them to 'fight like Arabs' and not seek English help, and to achieve Arab political autonomy. Arabs are not barbarous and cruel as demonstrated by Ali who becomes the voice of compassion and reason. Ali becomes the great hero while Lawrence is resigned to unimportance by the end and everyone in power is glad to be rid of him.
Quickly give the main points of Samuel Huntington's "Clash of Civilizations" article. Make a case that this could be considered an example of Orientalism.
Huntington argues that Cultural and Religious identities will be the sources of conflict in the post-cold war era; that civilization is an projection of culture. Battles of the future will be fought over cultural differences innate to humanity, rather than ideology or resources. Civilizations encompass geographic realms, and where they overlap there will be conflict. Huntington singles out the Islamic civilization in particular for its 'bloody borders.' Civilizations and their cultures are considered unchanging and inherently pit peoples in an 'us-vs-them' struggle as typified in Orientalism. Cultures are considered inherently different and opposed to each other, rigid and incapable of fluid exchange and intermingling. Also, provides justification for states to manipulate other states along cultural lines (Russia-Serbia), and for war-mongering against states of foreign cultures that may threaten a state's Civilization.
Why is urban public space important for street politics and communication of dissent?
IT IS DIFFICULT TO INSTITUTIONALIZE THE STREETS. It's harder to moderate and filter what takes place there, and costly to police large, open, public spaces. They are the only places where individual voices can be heard because anonymity is preserved there. The secret police of the governments can be avoided and cannot trace who said what to stop troublemakers. New developments and ideas can spread quickly. Public meetings allow for safety in numbers. Anyone can show up, like "the Square."
What is the major message of "Control Room?" Support with data from the film.
Images influence perceptions and images used as propaganda shape public opinion and psyche. US press officer and Al Jazeera rep are frustrated over a video showing US troops attacking and destroying, but not showing Iraqi attacks and destruction, but Jazeera rep says there are just no pictures of that, which are necessary to creating video. Years of seeing images of Israeli occupation of Palestine is ingrained in Arab psyche and US invasion translated American=Israeli & Iraqi=Palestinian. Al Jazeera shows dead US soldiers in a report to the ire of US press officers. Al Jazeera also shows dead Iraqis in their reports. Americans don't react the same way to Iraqi deaths as Iraqis do, and Al Jazeera wants to bridge this gap with images that show the Iraqi perspective during the war.
Discuss the ways rural residents in Douar Tahtani feel both inferior and superior to urban residents. What ways to state programs factor into these dynamics? (Christine El-Ourdani article on childhood)
Inferior: Lack of education, jobs, cultural sophistication. Doctors prescribe aspirin for everything - poor care. High dropout rates (blamed on the ban of corporal punishment). Superior: Stronger, freer, more independent. Early teasing toughens kids up. Children can roam wild, play miles from home, and are not confined to gender-specific locals. Programs act on stereotypes of them neglecting kids: because the people do not vaccinate kids program reforms require it in order to register as citizens and corporal punishment was considered negligent, so banned. Programs are of low quality with absent teachers, doctors that must be bribed for treatment, high official corruption, and low job prospects requiring subtle networkings.
Define informal networks, then analyze their importance for non-elite Egyptians as they mobilize to get a job. Why is this method of getting things done important?
Informal network: Pattern of interaction that flows withing organization. Arises due to the situation employees are in; emerges out of a need; no permanent structure; usually faster than formal networks; info may not be correct. The Need: Jobs are hard to come by in Cairo, especially for working/lower-middle class. Unemployment rose since 80's (continuation of Sadat's campaign of privatization) and many sought jobs as taxi drivers, tutors, etc. Not only individual effort, skills, and capabilities important in securing job, but knowing people too. Everyday life shaped by limitations, opportunities; networks become stronger as they become denser and more people and resources join - this gets things done. Women work networks to find a job rather than wait 5-7 years for an opening. Businessmen negotiate through complex tax regulations through sharing information, introductions to people, loans, tips, apartments, etc. Informality has cost, as it relies on human trust. Not generally strong enough to stand up to government actions like tearing down housing, etc.
State the basic point made in the material above (war on Jihad statement). What arguments would you make to your grandparents that Islam is not our enemy and that the above directive is not productive?
It is a call for tit-for-tat tactics against jihadis: Muslims should relinquish Islam once conquered because they force their conquered to do so. Conquered Muslims are to be given the ultimatum to embrace the faith of their conquerors, be 2nd class citizens worse than animals, or be brutally killed. It is a justification for revenge killings, because the basic premise of the argument is that these actions are acceptable because the victims thereof commit these crimes themselves. Convincing grandma: statistics help: 81% of American Muslims do not excuse suicide attacks; 72% of world's Muslims do not excuse violence against civilians; only 3% condone suicide attacks and the like; 56% of American Muslims believe that there is more than one religion that leads to Heaven; 54% of worlds Muslims say modernity and religion can coincide. However, stats aren't everything - grandma should be asked to empathize by comparing Mormons to Muslims and our opinion on that matter. Also, remind her that God gave man agency, and he that denies a man agency commits the same sins as Satan. Such hateful banter is not productive because it will validate Islamic concerns that there is a Crusader plot for holy war that will only encourage jihadis. Also, Islam is diverse, it's not fair to generalize. Hate only begets hate, but a soft word turns away wrath.
Is poetry important for public occasions in Yemen? Why so? How did it become important in waging war? (Draw answers from Steve Caton's article.)
It is important for both public and personal occasions. In this article, it describes an exchange of poetry that took place during the Yemeni civil war (republicans/loyalists). It was a way for shaykhs to express their political opinion using skill and powerful language. "War is waged with words as well as weapons." Poetry was also competitive between shaykhs. "If the poet is not up to scratch, he loses face, and the honor of his group is in turn diminished." They can be seen as a type of fight song or manifesto, as is the case of Shaykh al-Ghadir's poem declaring that his type will "never join the Republic." In public occasions any adult male may compose verse, but the shaykh must perform the challenge-and-response form, unless he trains a devoted follower to do so. Poetry is one of the most important methods to persuade compatriots to your view. Qur'anic poetry is an important guide/standard.
Is sacrificing a sheep required in Islam for the Feast of Sacrifice? Are there other examples from the Everyday Life book of form being more important than substance? Why does the importance of traditions and social pressure come up so often in questions of religion?
It is not required in Islam to sacrifice a sheep for the Feast of Sacrifice. The family in the article had the option to buy a kilo of meat instead, but that would embarrass them to their neighbors. "The Ramallah Girls." It was of utmost importance that they, being away from the credentials of a good home and family, behave themselves in such a way as to be respectable and moral. A cultural mishap or perception alone could ruin their opportunities for marriage. Also, the importance of having connections in Egypt, which often trumps the actual skill of a person. Religion is so interconnected with culture that shame becomes an issue in many societies. Caffeine in LDS circles is a cultural no-no, and a drinker of it could be 'shamed.'
Discuss three ways that class relations are reinforced on the Egyptian factory floor as described by Samir Shehata. How intractable are class differences in Egypt judging from this article? What does Shehata list as some of the major issues in the 2011 Egyptian Revolution?
Leaving the factory - managers are lightly screened by security, have the favor of the guards. Workers are severely searched, guards distrust. Tea - cafeteria, tea bags, servers, and washed cups for the managers. Workers reuse the same cups to get tea from a communal tea dispensary concocted by one floor worker in a buffet serving style. Wages & Payment - obvious pay differences between workers and managers, but also managers given organized, personal envelopes while workers wait in lines for cash, and are paid at uncertain intervals while managers paid on monthly schedule. As can be seen by the author's bus trip to the factory, where the workers had him sit in the front of the bus because he was of higher position than they, class systems will not be easily undone in Egypt, where they are casually reinforced - ingrained in the subaltern's psyche. The Revolution consisted of strikes and labor actions concerning class divides. Job losses, low wages, economic and political instability, and empowerment of workers against managers fueled revolution.
Scholar Steve Caton says about the film that Orientalism is partly recognized in Lawrence of Arabia as an objectifying process by the British: "The Orient exists in the form of beautiful specimens to be collected, extracted, and removed from their own local contexts and ultimately to be possessed for aesthetic contemplation or classified for scientific scrutiny." Could you make a case that the film "Lawrence of Arabia" is an Orientalist film (as stated in this quotation)? How would you make this argument?
LofA has a clear division of 'Us/Them' and regularly emphasizes the differences between Arab and Brit. Differences become most salient aspect of the Other. The Brits are civilized, urban, plan attacks in tents with maps, have an officers' club, uniformed, etc. Arabs are in Hobbsian state of nature, kill each other over wells, squabble over money and heritage and petty things, settle disputes with death, and above all else they live in the desert. However, the Arab culture is examined and the film exposes the audience to Arabia alongside Lawrence, who comes to fully embrace all the stereotypes given to the Arabs, to the disgust of Arabs. The stereotypes encountered are blurred by the end. Prince Faisal and General Allenby met at the end as equals, so while there was always an Us/Them dynamic, it was muddled enough that this may not have been an Orientalist film. Lawrence has much in common with the Arabs, which bridges the gap for the audience too. In Who's name does Lawrence work? Faisal or Allenby? Who is allowed to speak and write?
Discuss how gender is socially constructed in the case of homosexuality in Iran. How does the Iranian construction of homosexuality differ from that in the US?
Masculinity is different from culture to culture. Iranian men are poets, wear perfume, love fine art, behave with sentiment. ME men admire beauty, which can cause preference of boys over women. They hold hands, kiss in greeting, sleep next to each other, and do this out of affection but not necessarily homosexuality. In sexual relations there are active and passive roles, and it is shameful to be the passive role. The active role is seen as more masculine and dominating, and some active partners are not considered homosexual while passives are shamed for acting womanly. Female homosexuality is a secret, and husbands are more concerned about their affairs than their homosexuality. Gender is constructed by the passive/active roles in Iran. Also, Iran allows sex change as part of national health services - the soul is more important, so they can change their body to match their soul. Differences between Iran and US: partners are seen as equal (no passive/active roles); ME institutionalized continuation of homosexuality after heterosexual marriage; majority of homosexual actors in ME have heterosexual marriages and families; gay/straight dualism categorizations are distinctly Western concepts.
What obstacles do Egyptians face in deciding whether to have a kidney transplant? What does Islam say about organ transplants? Why do patients believe kidney disease is so widespread?
Obstacles: Notions that the soul still lingers in parts of the body after brain death make it unethical to use organs. There is not operating legal framework for transplantation of kidneys in Egypt, so most come from living people. Desperate lower classes sell their organs for money. Asking for a kidney is an 'unrepayable' favor that Egyptians are ashamed to ask. Potentially displeasing to God, as it is combating God's will and incurs financial risks, risk of malpractice, and negative social pressures. Medical treatment is hardly up to the challenge of conducting such procedures safely. Islam's take on transplants: Egyptian scholars agree it is ok. Many however do not accept the notion of 'spare parts' to the body and that such is a critique of God's craftsmanship. They also fear for endangering family members who donate. Al-Sabr - steadfastness in the face of trial, implies that one should bravely endure kidney disease and not make others to suffer. Many (especially rural) Egyptians believe that kidney disease comes from contaminated food (pesticides and hormones). Doctors believe these toxins may play a part in causing kidney disease in the poor classes.
What is a patriarchal society? Who is in charge? Who is subordinate? What is patrilocality? How do these forms of social order harm women?
Patriarchal society: a system of society or government in which the father or eldest male is head of the family and descent is traced through the male line of offspring. The men of the social unit are in charge. Age conveys status as well with respect due to the older males. Women are subordinate to men, as are children which are under the care of women. Older women subordinate younger ones, usually reflective of the status differences of their associated males. Patrilocality: Men remain with their birth families and women, through marriage, are absorbed therein. At the time of marriage women will live near or with the husband's family. Women leave homes and forsake personal identities, embracing those of husband. Women are economically and socially dependent on husbands and accompany a figure of wealth given to husband's social unit. Women are controlled and rendered powerless in order to protect tribal populations and preserve the purity of the male's linearity; women increase a tribe's numbers and have the power to seduce men. Women must be especially careful to avoid shame for rebellion, promiscuity, or any number of things that would also bear shame on the family and threaten their protection thereby; self-conformity under honor/shame rulings stifle women. Overt sexuality reduces a woman's worth yet increases the status of a man; double standard between men and women.
Why are Shia Pilgrimages to shrines undertaken? Describe manifestation of sectarianism during ritual pilgrimages. Why do these pilgrimages often become targets of sectarian differences?
Pilgrims that undertake Ziarat (lesser pilgrimages than hajj) believe that entombed saints have the ability to intercede with God for petitioners because they understand their visitors' through similar predicaments in their lives. Also provides an escape, especially for women, from home concerns and provides solace with other women. Sunni Muslims deny Shia entrance to certain burial sites in a manifestation of sectarianism. Shia religious books are confiscated by Sunnis. Religious sites differ greatly in ornamentation from Sunnis to Shii. Rumors about Wahhabis killing or raping Shia to access heaven. Pilgrimages are targets of sectarian differences because they are common instances where different sects are forced to interact, and the expectations of each other can flare up. It's the Us/Them divide, and its brought to attention in pilgrimages.
Why do Gaza youth identify political concerns as their personal concerns? Give examples. How is Gaza different from the rest of the world in this regard?
Politics permeate Gazan life. Because of political instability, economics are affected and youth are unemployed and therefore unmarried. They are precluded from attending good universities in the West Bank because of Israeli politics. There is no entertainment industry. Daily life is colored by fear of attack and mistreatment, and from being valued as lesser than Israelis and even other Arabs. Because of these hardships, there can be no comfortable separation between the political and personal as there is in the rest of the world. Political involvement gives the Gaza youth a purpose. "During our actions or involvement in the Intifada...we began to have a role in our society...we became leaders when we were children, so we began to think that we had a great role to perform."
What does the Gallup World Poll on 'What Muslims Think' say about: attacks on civilians, condoning acts of terrorism, what Muslims admire about the West, what they least admire about the West, hopes and dreams for the future, what Muslim women want, the role of religion in politics, and what the West can do to improve relations with their societies? What is the basic take-away from this data?
Radical rejection: Muslims & Americans are equally likely to reject attacks on civilians as morally unjustified. Religious moderates: Those who condone acts of terrorism are a minority and are no more likely to be religious than others. Admiration of the West: Technology and democracy are generally most admired by both Muslims and Americans. Critique of the West: Moral decay and breakdown of tradition and values is least admired about the West by both Muslims and Americans. Gender justice: Muslim women want equal rights & religion in their societies simultaneously. Clerics & constitutions: The majority want religious leaders to have no direct role in crafting a constitution, yet favor religious law as a source for legislation. Improvements between West and the Rest: Demand respect. Muslims around the world say that one thing the West can do to improve relations with their societies is to moderate their views toward Muslims and respect Islam. The data suggest that Muslims are fluid and mostly tolerant, and that they share many commonalities with Westerners.
Religion is an important part of Egyptian media presentation. Discuss the varieties of shows, stars, and preachers as well as the subjects their programs address. What does moderation or wasatiyya mean in this context?
Salafis: Literal, traditional, fundamentalist interpretation. Back to the basics of Islam. "Followers of the Prophet." A distinctive outlook based on what they term as 'pure Islam.' New Preachers: personalized, evangelical interpretation of Islam. No or little formal religious training, parse personal Islam into modern Islam. Personable, charismatic, and dramatic. Moderate-voice theologians: Modern thinkers with theological training, usually from Al-Azhar university and seminary. They preach in local mosques and advocate moderate theological interpretations via talk shows and at events. Wasatiyaa means balance. The belief that one can be a true Muslim through personal struggle and commitment to civil society with no Salafi scripturalism and orthodoxy (New Preacher principles) represents a significant alternative to political Islam. Clean Islamic personalized entertainment culture and a pervasive sense of moderation called wasatiyya.
How does Schulthies demonstrate that the Arabic language is not monolithic and that it often carries political connotations?
Schulthies uses the Kharabeesh Cartoons depiction of ousted Tunisian President Ben-Ali to highlight the regional differences in Arabic. Not Monolithic: Using romanized Arabic graphic form vs standard script; leaders of arabic nations speak with national accents and colloquialisms (different words for tissue between Libya & Tunisia); debate over whether or not King Abdullah would use the word 'rayal' for 'man.' Political connotations: Most leaders lack formal MSA fusha, Ben Ali was good, and spoke in mixtures of MSA and Tunisian to appeal to Tunisian public; many film viewers disagreed even on stereotypical dialect features; approval of Mubarak's working-class phrases to cuss out Ben-Ali portraying Mubarak in a demeaning way; controversy over King Abdullah's accent, claiming it was Kuwaiti, not central Saudi; the word 'rayal' exposed tensions between Sunnis and Shias in Saudi Arabia because people that say 'rayal' are Gulfies, not true Saudis; commentaries from the YouTube video exposed regional differences, sparked national sentiments, and reconciled some Arabs in a commonality of language in some cases.
Discuss how Sally Zahran became an Egyptian hero. Why did veiling become a major issue?
She was the only woman martyr at the revolution on Tahrir Square. She looked young, vivacious, and active in her photo and symbolized much of the youth movement involved in the revolution. Veiling became an issue because of the power struggle between the Muslim Brotherhood and fundamentalists against secular and moderate forces in the revolution. Both wanted her face to join their cause, but the MB had to draw a veil on her to make her a 'good muslim woman.'
Robert Bianchi lays out the spiritual importance of the hajj as well as the challenges. Give details and explain where the spiritual highs come from and what produces the challenges.
Spiritual highs: Sense of Muslim Ummah. Survival during hajj depends on kindness and courage of strangers. Groups form to pool resources and organize the chaos. Interactions with diverse Muslims across the globe. Hajj is personal, and personal insight is what matters most during the experience. Challenges: 1% or so of Muslims can make the hajj because of finances or health. Going is not enough - hajj must be scrutinized closely by God on a case by case basis. Hajj cannot be completed on a step-by-step route anymore due to huge crowds, creating disappointment and inadequacy. Crowds are a major concern. Saudi corruption (wahhabism, racism, sectarianism) and materialistic marketing create friction. Infrastructure cannot always handle sheer numbers.
What are different meanings that Muslim women attribute to women's Muslim dress? Does behavior always accord with these meanings
Spiritually it shows reverence to God. Socially it protects from being objectified, status symbol of a 'good girl', demonstrates obedience to parents, indicates marriageability and womanhood/puberty, and as rebellion against Western culture. Intended purposes of Muslim dress is religious, not slutty; doesn't necessarily mean women without this dress are immoral/atheistic, but social expectations intend it to be that way like in Ramallah; likewise those that do dress accordingly may be irreligious/amoral as in Ramallah; consider that prostitutes in Amman wear the niqab.
What is Sufism? What are the goals of the Naqshbandi brotherhood? What practices are part of a disciple's work and routine? Explain 'taming the "nefs."' How do the teachings of this sufi order relate to ways of incorporating religion into one's life?
Sufis consider themselves to be the original followers of islam, claiming Muhammed was a sufi messenger. They strive to bridle their passions and control their inner desires (nefs) and turn to God. Not merely a system of thought, rather consists of practical means for cultivating proper Muslim life and about being a good person. Dismayed by Salafists and Wahhabis and not seen by them as 'pure Islam.' Naqshbandis find it necessary to work with the assistance of the shaykh and oneself and that through such work one must transform. Have been known historically for their 'orthodoxy,' or how little they differ from Sunni beliefs - they are submitting to God's Book and imitating the example of His Messenger and Companions. Focused on practical life applications in Islam, and in incorporating Sufism into Sunnism. To control one's nefs one must reject worldly pursuits and concerns in favor of devotion to God. This is often achieved through menial work, simple dress, and even neglecting good appearance. Nefs are base/natural instincts. Instead of just believing in God one must submit his will to God by practicing what you preach.
What does Ira Lapidus state makes a city a Muslim city? Note that this can be an original Muslim city or a previously-founded 'two-city' situation. Lapidus talks about characteristics that apply to any city, to pre-islamic and ancient Near Eastern traditions, and those that are clearly Muslim. Emphasize the latter in your answer.
The Mosque and market are quintessential to a Muslim city and are usually at the center of the city. From there emanate an intricate spiderweb of tight, narrow streets navigable to the pack-animals of the Near East, and an almost non-existence of public spaces. The cities were well adapted to arid conditions and formed either around water sources or access routes where water could be procured. Muslim cities are bounded by walls or clear urban-rural divides (like a floodplain), are divided into parochial/confessional communities and familiar units, yet include diverse and differentiated populations. Class distinctions were not as emphasized until governmental, agricultural, and religious developments stratified the cities more by class. Class distinctions are visible in more modern Muslim cities than ancient ones. The 'two-city' concept refers to that of the colonial era when colonists would establish separate cities of Western layout and design near the ancient Muslim city. Over time the two have usually merged and mingled their constructions. Baghdad was the first Arab-Islamic city to present the formal aspect of other urban cities.
What pressures do the Ramallah girls face in living their lives? How do they work to productively deal with those pressures?
The Ramallah girls face discrimination by going against the traditional role of Palestinian girls living with family until marriage. They are unchaperoned and have no familiar connections and thereby face exploitation by landlords, bosses, and coworkers. Unequal salaries, unstable employment, unfamiliarity with local laws and customs, antagonism from local Ramallah citizens. Reputations face pressure too. Many are viewed as 'bad girls' by virtue of being unchaperoned and not living the traditional style, and are perceived as constantly partying and engaging in immorality. This can affect job opportunities, housing availability, and especially marriage opportunities. Reputation is everything and being a Ramallah threatens that. The girls deal with these pressures by living lives in ways acceptable for Palestinian girls such as veiling, not having men around or in their apartments, and not staying out late. This can mitigate gossip and be at a level of activity normal for women in Palestine.
Why is it important to understand how a reporter, politician, writer, filmmaker, statistician, scholar, and so on, knows what he/she knows (the epistemology of a product)? Give an example from the Middle East and also at least one example from US current events, gender issues, etc.
The epistemology of an information creator is vital to understanding the information product because it can reveal biases, conflicts of interest, validity or information, logicality, and the lens through which the creator was looking when the information was produced. It is the grain of salt with which information must be taken. "Ahmadinejad gloated publicly over the death of Israelis in a terror bombing in Bulgaria, and hinted Iran responsible." In this case it was important to know who did and how the translation was conducted to know what choices were made for interpreting ambiguous words and terms. Biases can be part of translation, and their realization in articles like this are inflammatory. Ferguson - whether or not those talking about it are truly objective or are pushing their own agendas. Exposure to the case, the jury report, primary sources and the like over opinions and potential political outcomes. It is a hot topic and anything said about it will have drastic results. Objectivity is stressed, but rarely executed.
Discuss the concerns of finding health insurance and getting adequate treatment in Lebanon.
The government cannot afford to keep its promises to citizens. The National Social Security Fund cannot cover its advertised 85% of care. Even those in secure jobs can't get covered by the NSSF because providers can't afford it and lower cost providers are available for less coverage. Health care involves long reimbursement waits, low quality, disorganized treatments, and social stigmas against asking for help. Rudeness and disrespect are issues too. Private insurance covers more, is more expensive, but is of higher quality. Often, Lebanese resort to bearing the costs themselves, selling jewelry to afford medications, depending on charities, etc. Wars only make things more difficult.
Give three examples of how the impact of politics affects everyday life in Gaza. Why is this so important for the youth?
The heroes of four interviewed youth were political figures. Favorable political occurrences made them happy (peace talks). Even running for fun had political implications because the Israelis would try to arrest a running Palestinian youth. One boy had a hard time getting into a local university because there were few universities, lots of students, and little opportunity to travel outside the strip. People cannot find jobs because of the poverty and dismal economic situation. They deem politics important because it regularly affects their lives on a personal level. Limited opportunities lead to increased interest/participation in politics, which are also important to Gazan youth because it gives them something to do/be a part of. Chance to be leaders and participate in society.
Why would writing on harsh issues such as human rights be treated lightly in Salah El-Ouadie's book? Give examples of three points he makes about poor treatment and how he explains it away.
The lightness of his tone serves to highlight the irony. I assume as well that this irony may be used not only as an effective literary tool but also as a coping mechanism for the author, who actually experienced these traumatic events. About torture: "Perhaps they do not see why we should enjoy human rights because they take us for sheep. Ah, I get it. We must convince them that we are human beings, surely then they will stop beating and whipping us." He tells the truth (that Morocco is suffering, people are poor, etc.) and gets beaten. He lies (Morocco is prosperous and happy) and is also beaten. He tries to explain to the prison guards the difference between a sheep and a man and they respond: "'You make fun of us, you ass.' You see the level of their knowledge about animals."
Why can't women of the Awlad Ali Bedouin articulate their intimate feelings publicly? How does performance become a means to express their sadness? How can impersonal expressions of pain intimate personal concerns?
There is an expectation of pride and independence that discourages an openness about personal feelings. Through poetry they may express their feelings and experiences and be understood by other women without compromising their social position or reputation. Many sing songs of loved ones who have gone away (sons to find work, daughters married off, etc) and others sing of death, disease, poverty, loss of hope. Ghinnawa - 'little song' expressive and personal. Common form of expression. Contents of ghinnawas are considered personal, even sensitive to the extent that Lila Abu Lughod was warned 'never to reveal any women's poems to men.' Impersonal expressions of pain make them universal, and therefore applicable to all that hear them.
What is a tribe? Discuss how the concept of honor and shame is integral to tribal functioning. Give at least one example of how honor and shame is alive and well in Middle Eastern societies today.
Tribes are social groups linked by patriliniarity. They form as families grow under a similar male, related by birth or marriage. Families > Clans > Tribes. They are managed through honor and shame which regulates social behavior and loyalty. Power is given primarily by cultural honorings through financial means, formal authority, bravery, etc. Much of the honor of the family rests on the virtue of the women (a sign of loyalty). 16 year old Afgani Morsol was killed by her brother because he thought she might be shaming the family through immoral acts. Umm Suleiman in "In the Country of Men" was forced into marriage because she was seen with a boy in a cafe, which was a potentially dangerous situation for her virtue.
Discuss the double standard of sexuality in Tunisia. What are the costs for Women? What might mitigate the problems women face?
Women are required to prove their virginity while men are not (and are encouraged to be active). Women carry the honor of their families more clearly than men do. Angel Foster article: Fatiha said "Guys want to date girls who will have sex with them, but they want to marry virgins." Costs to Women: low self-esteem and respect, lack of knowledge about sexual health, STD's, how to get pregnant. hymen reparation surgery and doctor certificates of virginity. Unwanted pregnancies. Abortions. Fatma died from attempting an abortion herself. Mitigation of these problems: End purity practices now nullified by hymen reparation. Candidly teach sexual health in schools. Facilitate contraception and birth control access.
Victoria Fontan talks about two cases of how Iraqis choose sides and suffer damage during the Iraq conflict. Give details about the situations she relates of Yasser al-Bulaimi and the brothers Kheider and Rawand. How did pragmatism and the desire to survive outlast ideology and hope for democracy and freedom in their cases?
Yasser was a Sunni security contractor injured by a car bomb. He was poorly treated in a predominantly Shia hospital and nearly lost his leg to gangrene. The security firm's insurance decided not to cover Yasser's expenses (specifically not the Iraqi security operatives). Yasser preferred Jordanian monarchy to Iraq's chaotic transitions. This highlights that a desire to live overcame Yasser's ideological hopes for democracy/freedom in Iraq and his trust in fellow Iraqis. Khaider and Rawand are brothers working for a Mosul based security firm. Rawand is involved with Al-Qaeda and is a piously strict Muslim. Khaider had no Al-Qaeda affiliations. Rawand associates with 'depraved (morally corrupt) Muslims' in order to get funding for regional operations. They identified ideologically driven individuals that are suspending their beliefs in order to sustain their operations/livelihoods in changing circumstances. Pragmatism overcame hopes and ideologies for both Yasser and Rawand. The transition to 'Western democracies' is difficult when your life is constantly at risk and when the streets of Baghdad and their demonstrations are violently crushed. It doesn't matter where ideologies fall anymore, what matters is staying alive.
Why is zakat important to Muslims? How does Abu Illya illustrate his faith in this principle? What insights does this article give us into Muslim attitudes of charity? What insight into being reticent to judge others?
Zakat is important to Muslims because it is one of the 5 pillars of Islam, a foundation of their faith. Although it is normally not collected through the state anymore, Muslims are expected to look after their neighbors (as it says in the Qur'an). Abu Illya illustrates his faith by helping this widow for many years, even though he is not particularly wealthy himself. He says that it is his honor to give zakat and her honor to receive it. In that manner they are good Muslims. Although Abu Illya had a hashish-smoking problem, he was still pious and caring. You can't judge a book by its cover.
