Quote:
Originally posted by alia_musallam@Jan 22nd, 2004 - 3:03 am
As for being overthrown I don't believe it will be... it has powerful backers...
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Yeah, well so did the Shah. The backers aren't always going to be there. In fact, over the next twenty years I think we are going to see a major shift.
Personally, I definitely think it will be overthrown if there is another pre-emptive war in the region (or there will be substantial changes), or if peace is made with the Israelis and the Palestinians and the authoritarianism continues in the aftermath of such a peace.
He does have elite support, but that is a quid pro quo and they can turn on him if their needs aren't being met. The military is very loyal (this is his biggest security), but that too can change. Seemingly loyal military men have turned before. Particularly in situations of chaos (like in the aftermath of a war), when the system is weak.
I agree with both Alia AND Bubette with regards to computers and internet. Abdullah's economic policies have been criticized as unrealistic and not in sync with Jordan's realities. Putting internet in schools is not going to solve Jordan's underlying economic problems. However, we are increasingly living in an information age. Although we may have not learnt how to use computers while growing up (although I did), it is more imporant now. Those who do not have access to these skills will be severly disadvantaged in the future. These skills are important in this age of 'outsourcing', multinational corporations, and foreign direct investment. A computer literate generation will add to Jordan's comparative advantage down the road. Due to the lack of natural resources, it really does need this. Just look at India. So many Western firms have their call centres in places like Banglore now.
So, in short, I don't think it can be a one or another. I think computer literacy has to be part of a realistic economic and human development plan -- one which addresses issues such as infrastructure, health, micro-finance, cottage industries, agriculture, etc., as well as education. Jordan has such a high literacy rate and,IMO, computer skills will only add to this. Besides, being connected to the world will, hopefully, lead to a political opening.
Just my late night musings.