Author Description

Dr. Roby Barrett's examination and study of some 200 years of the Sultanateof Oman's dynastic history is an excellent companion piece to hisearlier work, Yemen: A Different Political Paradigm in Context. His Omanstudy puts into context the last four decades of the Sultanate's history toanswer the question of whether Oman has changed fundamentally froma nation fraught with instability and conflict to one of peace and stability.Dr. Barrett's research focuses on the current rule of Sultan Qaboos and hisapproach to change, development, and modernity in a centuries-old culturethat has experienced political, economic, and social upheaval throughoutmost of its early existence.Dr. Barrett's analysis of Sultan Qaboos and his understanding of the rolescentral authority, tribalism, succession problems, religious fundamentalism,and competing internal political centers have played in Oman's historywill aid today's reader in understanding the impact of fundamental changeand progress along with the external trappings of modernity from a strictlyMiddle Eastern vantage point rather than in the Western context. Dr. Barrettwrites that "Sultan Qaboos' rule is not about liberalization and democracy.In fact, authority is probably more centralized in Oman than in any otherstate in the Arabian Gulf and for very good reason." Barrett's analysis ofmodern-day Oman will help the reader avoid the pitfalls of misinterpretingthe present condition on the basis of Oman's largely tumultuous past, whichoften featured conflict and competition for wealth and power.Dr. Barrett puts forth a set of conclusions about the Omani experiencethat focuses on Sultan Qaboos' understanding of the instability of the pastand difficulties of succession. Although the Sultan has no heir, he has generateda plan to avoid the succession problems of the past. Barrett points outthe role of Oman's economy and the increasing stresses governments in theGulf region now face, particularly with the prospect of declining oil revenu