Carol Riphenburg has written a good synthesis of research on Oman by British American, and some Gulf-based writers.
[T]he book,...is a useful introduction to the sultanate for both students and the general reader.
These comments aside, Oman: Political Development in a Changing World is a valuable addition to the literature on Oman. With its combination of general geographical and historical background and more specific discussion of political, economic, and social development and foreign policy under Sultan Qaboos, it is recommended to both Omani specialists interested in contemporary affairs and a wider audience interested in development issues in the Gulf/Middle East region.
Praeger is to be commended for publishing Carol J. Riphenburg's Oman: Political Development in a Changing World....Riphenburg's work provides an insightful analysis of Omani political development since the advent of the Qabus regime.
Product Description
The Sultanate of Oman overlooks one of the most strategic waterways in the Middle East: the Strait of Hormuz. Sharing the guardianship of the Strait with Iran, Oman's position is of key importance to the security of the entire Gulf, which holds a large portion of the world's oil resources. In a 1970 palace coup, Sultan Qaboos ibn Sa'id overthrew the repressive and reclusive rule of his father and embarked on a program of modernization. Oman became one of the success stories of the developing world, instituting a modern educational system, creating a modern infrastructure, becoming an oil exporter, and constucting an elaborate social welfare system. Today the country faces a host of challenges. Oman cannot defend itself from hostile neighbors without assistance. Restructuring Omani society and the economy present even greater difficulties. Moreover, change must occur at a time when Islamic movements pose a significant political threat, and oil income is not sufficient to meet the country's social and economic needs. Professor Riphenburg has provided a survey that will be invaluable to all students and researchers of the modern Middle East.
See all Editorial Reviews
