Presenting bold and original insights, this book examines the policies and diplomacies pursued by Arab and Western governments, while discussing both the political and cultural roles played by the modern Arab World. It explores the various facets of the malaise affecting the Arab world, stressing the urgent call for reform and recovery, as well as the need to address major issues including inter-Arab affairs, relations with a hegemonic USA, and peace with Israel.

In addition, the book provides new perspectives on a range of topics including Arab and Muslim diplomacy, literature, and culture; often as these interact with Western models and paradigms in an increasingly interconnected but challenging world. Employing a combination of disciplines and discourses, the book aids learners and policy-makers in better understanding the Arab world's successes and failures in its problematic relations with the West and modernity.