The report consists of five case studies of the political role of the military: Ethiopia, Jordan, Pakistan, South Korea, and Burma. It includes an introductory essay by the editor suggesting conceptualization of a research format--that an explanation of the political role of the military depends upon (1) the political resources of the military, (2) the political perspectives of the military, and (3) patterns of demands and supports within the civilian sector. Each study presents the history of the armed forces, their organization, training, patterns of social recruitment, and values. The political history of each country emphasizes causes of political stability or instability such as sociopolitical divisions or presence of a potential external threat. The politicization of the military resulting from these internal and political factors has led to incidents of military involvement in politics, including coups d'etat in all the countries, and to military governments in three of them; these incidents, and the military governments, are described in detail.

This textbook deals with central political themes and issues in the developing world, including globalisation, inequality, identity, religion, the military, democracy, the environment and policy development.

Does the withdrawal of armies from direct rule in most countries herald an end to their role as actors in domestic politics? Has political intervention by the military been superseded? This comparative examination of the politicized armed forces looks at * the consequences of military rule for nation building and economic development * the effects of the passing of the Cold War and the rise of globalization on the political role of the military * the role of political armies in the consolidation of civil politics and democratic governance * the lessons for policy makers in global governance and post-conflict reconstruction The contributors build on successive theories about the role of the military in politics and look to the future. The most threatening scenario may be a proliferation of armed actors and the rise of privatized forces of law and order.

Role of armed forces in political leadership and social structure of developing countries.