The course aims to offer a historical-geopolitical and economic overview of the Mediterranean space, highlighting the influence of religions and cultures on economic development and exchanges between the two shores of the Mediterranean. The student will have to become aware of the complexity and mutual inter-dependence of the factors involved as well as of the plural and constantly changing nature of the geopolitical space considered.
Course Prerequisites
None
Teaching Methods
Lessons, seminars and discussions on case studies.
Assessment Methods
Written exam on issues presented during the course or oral presentation on a case study of a State of the MENA region (both from an economic and a legal-social point of view).
Contents
The course offers an interdisciplinary analysis of the historical and contemporary dynamics that characterize the Mediterranean basin as an area of trade, conflict, and cooperation. The module on Mediterranean economies (25 hours) explores the region's major economic and financial transformations, with particular attention to development differentials between the two shores, the role of natural resources, economic migration, and trade integration processes. A specific focus will be on Islamic finance, considered an example of an alternative economic system that is increasingly relevant in North Africa and the Middle East. The module on Law, Religions, and Cultures in the Mediterranean area (25 hours) will analyze the major religions of Mediterranean, their historical presence, their laws, and contemporary issues. We will then focus on the analysis of some MENA region states, including their current socio-political situation, the consequences of the Arab Spring, the analysis of their constitutional structure and the role of religions and religious freedom in their legal systems.
Course Language
Italian
More information
Teachers are available for tutoring students after lessons or via Teams, by appointment.
