Earth Trek Series Features Talk on 'Socio-Economic Issues in the Middle East – Truths and Misconceptions'

Dr. Syed Saad, Economics Department, will give a presentation, “Socio-Economic Issues in the Middle East – Truths and Misconceptions,” on Thursday, April 14.

This is the fifth presentation in International Education’s Earth Trek series for 2010-11. In this series, faculty members who have received travel grants will speak on their travels and related research.

The Middle East or the “Arab” world evokes many different perceptions and some prejudices. Some immediately think of the vast oil resources and the wealth they bring. Others think of oppression of human rights, religious fanaticism, cultural isolationism, or violence. Whatever these views, the region has always managed to engender much controversy and mystery. A course in Middle Eastern Economics will explore some of these controversies and mysteries from an economics perspective and teach students some of the perceived and real differences between the Western world and the “Arab” world.

Last summer, Saad traveled to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates to examine the feasibility of offering such a course on site. This talk shares some of the findings of the trip.

The event will be held from noon to 1 p.m. in Room 201, John R. Roach Center for the Liberal Arts. All students, faculty and staff are invited. Bring a lunch; light snacks and refreshments will be provided.