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The Politics of Bread in Contemporary Jordan: A Deep Dive into Food and Society

Desmond Foster

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Published in States Of Subsistence: The Politics Of Bread In Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies In Middle Eastern And Islamic Societies And Cultures)

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In the tapestry of Jordan's contemporary society, bread holds a significance that transcends its nutritional value. It is a staple food, a cultural symbol, and a potent force that has shaped the political landscape of the country. In this compelling study, "The Politics of Bread in Contemporary Jordan," author XXX delves into the intricate relationship between bread and Jordanian society, exploring the ways in which this basic foodstuff has influenced political decision-making, fueled social unrest, and reflected the evolving economic and political realities of the region.

Bread: A Cornerstone of Jordanian Society

For centuries, bread has been a cornerstone of the Jordanian diet, a symbol of sustenance and hospitality. It is a staple food that graces tables in every household, regardless of socioeconomic status. Beyond its nutritional value, bread holds a deep cultural significance, representing community, tradition, and familial bonds. The sharing of bread is an act of generosity and a symbol of social cohesion.

States of Subsistence: The Politics of Bread in Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies in Middle Eastern and Islamic Societies and Cultures)

by José Ciro Martínez

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15366 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	328 pages

A Group Of Jordanians Sharing Bread At A Traditional Meal. States Of Subsistence: The Politics Of Bread In Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies In Middle Eastern And Islamic Societies And Cultures)

The Bread Subsidy Program: A Political Lifeline

Recognizing the importance of bread to its citizens, the Jordanian government has long implemented a bread subsidy program. This program, which subsidizes the price of flour used in bread production, has been a critical safety net for the country's poor and middle class. By keeping bread affordable, the government has helped to ensure food security and maintain social stability.

A Jordanian Woman Buying Subsidized Bread At A Local Bakery. States Of Subsistence: The Politics Of Bread In Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies In Middle Eastern And Islamic Societies And Cultures)

Bread and Political Unrest

However, the bread subsidy program has also been a source of political tension. When the government has attempted to reduce or eliminate subsidies, it has often met with widespread protests and even riots. In 1996, for example, a sharp increase in bread prices sparked widespread demonstrations across the country, leading to the resignation of the prime minister.

Jordanians Protesting Against Bread Price Increases In 1996. States Of Subsistence: The Politics Of Bread In Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies In Middle Eastern And Islamic Societies And Cultures)

The Political Economy of Food

The case of bread in Jordan highlights the complex interplay between food and politics. Bread is not merely a commodity; it is a political tool that can be used to gain support or quell dissent. The government's bread subsidy program is a form of social welfare that has helped to maintain political stability, but it has also created a dependency on government handouts.

A Government Official Inspecting The Quality Of Bread At A Local Bakery. States Of Subsistence: The Politics Of Bread In Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies In Middle Eastern And Islamic Societies And Cultures)

In "The Politics of Bread in Contemporary Jordan," XXX presents a multi-faceted analysis of the relationship between bread and society in Jordan. Through a detailed examination of the bread subsidy program, the author sheds light on the political economy of food and the ways in which this basic foodstuff has shaped the political landscape of the country. This study is a valuable contribution to the understanding of food security, social welfare, and the intricate dynamics between food and politics in the Middle East.

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States of Subsistence: The Politics of Bread in Contemporary Jordan (Stanford Studies in Middle Eastern and Islamic Societies and Cultures)

by José Ciro Martínez

5 out of 5