Good overview of uprisings in the Arab world. The book is laid out in a FAQ fashion, but fairly cohesive chapters.
The monarchs of the Arab world were partying with their families and close associates with Oil money and grants, and did not build self-sufficient and sustainable economies. People were denied basic rights and the institutions in place were only serving interests of the establishment. People were kept happy by throwing free money at them, called the ‘ruling bargain’. As soon as that ended, primarily when money dried up as a result of dip in oil prices and the push for liberal policies of west and international institutions, naturally they revolted. On top of these, sectarian violence in Arab world further complicated the situation. And was multiplied by involvement of ‘hostile’ America.
The uprisings are hence a first step towards better institutions — be it democracy or autocracy or something in between. But the world moved too far: debt and democracy are the norm. Arab world will inevitably accept that unless another world war changes world affairs.
