Arab Youth: Social Mobilization in Times of Risk

(Paperback)

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In 2011, thousands of Arab youth took to the streets to demand their freedom. Although it is too early to speculate on the ultimate outcome of the revolutionary uprisings, one auspicious feature stands out: they reveal the genesis of a new generation sparked by the desire for civil liberties, advocacy for human rights and participatory democracy. Arab Youth explores some of the antecedents of the upheavals and anticipates alternative venues of resistance that marginalized youth, from Lebanon, Syria and Palestine to Saudi Arabia, Morocco and Iran, can mobilize to realize their emancipatory expectations. Themes covered in this unique volume include the forging of meaningful collective identities in times of risk and uncertainty; youth militancy, neighborhood violence and youth gangs in distinct urban and suburban settings; the surge of youthful activism in political movements, advocacy groups and welfare civic associations; and youths' expressive outlets through popular arts, street music and popular culture.

Reviews

Endorsements: "Arab youth have toppled dictatorships across the region in 2011. This book provides the best insights into the culture, politics and consciousness of the generation that led the Arab Awakening. Bringing together innovative scholarship by leading authorities from around the world, Arab Youth is essential reading for anyone who want to understand the revolutions of 2011." Eugene Rogan (Director, The Middle East Centre, University of Oxford) "Samir and Roseanne Khalaf's critical collection dynamically captures one of the most electrifying moments in modern Arab history. The book is prescient in anticipation of the Arab Spring and the leading role played by youth. The data is rich; the analyses are sharp; and the implications are powerfully drawn. The volume could not be more timely." Suad Joseph, Professor of Anthropology and Women and Gender Studies, University of California, Davis 'This collection provides the most accurate and comprehensive insights into the mindsets and conditions of youth in the Arab world that I have seen in recent years. Anyone interested in penetrating the world and the worldviews of young Arab men and women should start here.' Rami Khouri, American University of Beirut

Author Bio

Samir Khalaf is Professor of Sociology and Director of the Center for Behavioral Research, American University of Beirut. He has held academic appointments at Princeton, Harvard, MIT and New York University. Roseanne Saad Khalaf is Assistant Professor of English and Creative Writing at the American University of Beirut. Editor locations: Beirut, Lebanon