Al-Farsy, F. (1990). Modernity and tradition: The Saudi equation. London: Kegan Paul International. This book provides a thorough introduction to the topic of change and modernization in Saudi Arabia. However, Al-Farsy's optimistic view of this change is often unwarranted. For example, he feels that the position of women is developing slowly but surely in the country. In actuality, Saudi women are still extremely repressed in terms of dress, travel, employment, and segregation. Al-Farsy also takes a positive view regarding Saudi Arabia's economic development and the value of traditional, tribal forms of "democracy." Although he makes valid points on these issues, Al-Farsy avoids the fact that the current political structure of the Kingdom denies true political representation for the people.
Askari, H. (1991, 18 March). Restoring the gulf's health. U.S. News & World Report 110, pp. 60-61.
Beyer, L. (1991, 28 January). What kind of peace? Time 137, 38-40+.
Bill, J. A., & Springborg, R. (1990). Politics in the Middle East. 3rd ed. Glenview: Scott, Foresman & Company. This is an excellent overview of the political situation in the entire Middle East, as well as in Saudi Arabia. Bill and Springborg provide many valuable insights into both regional politics and the interactions of the Middle East states with the Western powers. The authors provide accurate definitions for the various types of governments in the region and note that Saudi Arabia follows a repressive, "traditional-authoritarian" format. Because of this fact, the economic benefits of the Kingdom's oil economy are firmly controlled by the royal family. Bill and Springborg also provide reliable insights into the rise of Saudi's new middle class (technocrats) and their demands for increased political participation.
Eglin, D. R. (1985). The economy. Saudi Arabia: A country study. R. F. Nyrop, ed. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Govern
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