new and improved paper topics(s)

As discussed in class, we have changed the paper a bit, and extended the deadline a week to February 22 (when, by the way, we are meeting at the country club to hear Taner Akcam). Here is the new and improved paper topic. You have a choice of two options, one deals only with US policy toward Iran; the other with US policy toward Iran and Afghanistan (which would require you to skip ahead and also read Fisk's chapter 21 where he returns to the theme of Afghanistan.

Middle East Politics
Spring 2007
First Paper

Write a single 4 to 5 page essay that answers all the questions in either Option A or Option B below. Use plenty of reference to Fisk’s book, and to other sources. (Be scrupulously clear about your sources!)

Option A: In The Great War for Civilization, Robert Fisk is critical of America’s policies in Afghanistan and Iran. Explain what he believes the US did wrong in each country. Were the mistakes similar or different in the two cases? Why does he believe the United States did what it did, and what do you think he thinks the US should have done differently? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Option B: In The Great War for Civilization, Robert Fisk is critical of America’s policies toward Iran. Explain what he believes the US did wrong over the years. Why does he believe the United States did what it did, and what do you think he thinks the US should have done differently? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

This paper is due Thursday, February 22.