at has an affiliation with the autnomonous group, the retention of symbols of self-determination for the autonomous group (e.g., flags, anthem, language, etc.), and a clear division of powers. Although all the factors of success are not present in each case that Lapidoth presents, these factors certainly increase the odds for a peaceful resolution of differences through autonomy.
Yet another good thing about the book is the detailed case studies that are provided. While Lapidoth cautions that each case is different, much can be learned from the experiences of other countries. For each case, Lapidoth describes the historical background of the region, the first attempts at peaceful resolution, and details of the regime of autonomy. In the case of the Palestinian-Israeli peace accord, autonomy has been established in stages: " . . . a timetable has been set for various sets of negotiations intended to lead to a staged transfer of powers from the Israeli military government to the Palestinians, accompanied by a withdrawal and redeployment of Israel's forces" (Lapidoth, 1996, p. 157). Lapidoth's discussion of each case includes an analysis of how the autonomy achieved differs from the others that are studied in the book. Each case has interesting features based on solutions to problems that are unique to the parties involved, yet similarities exist that are instructive and can be applied in other cases.
2. Concerning what is "bad" about the book, nothing appears really bad or negative, it is just that its omissions raise questions. Lapidoth chooses to confine her study to the efforts of minority groups to achieve autonomy. She purposely leaves out any detailed discussion of indigenous populations (with the exception of the case of Greenland/Kalaallit Nunaat). Thus the narrow scope of her book limits its interest to North Americans who, for instance, are knowledgeable about the struggle of Native Americans, the indigenous pop...